More than 80 trainees graduated on Friday as the Saint Lucia Council for Technical and Vocational Education & Training (SLCTVET) hosted its 2025 Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) ceremony.
Held at the Financial Administrative Centre under the theme Skilful Steps Towards Achieving Success, the event honoured graduates across a wide spectrum of disciplines – from teaching and construction site supervision to cosmetology, massage therapy, food preparation, cookery and welding.
Executive Director Perry Thomas praised the graduates’ achievements and underscored the transformative power of CBET. “As a TVET graduate, the opportunities are endless,” he said, pointing to pathways in employment, promotion and entrepreneurship.
Thomas also outlined the council’s broader mission: developing occupational standards, designing curricula, coordinating training to meet labour market needs, and enhancing employability.
“The TVET delivery system must be adequately supported by persons who know and understand that CBET is highly relevant to technical and vocational education,” he said, emphasising the need for graduates to be equipped not just with skills, but with the mindset and professionalism demanded by today’s industries.
He highlighted mentorship and apprenticeship programmes as vital bridges between training and employment, ensuring that apprentices are job-ready and aligned with industry expectations.
Ziana Boulogne-Joseph, a lecturer at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, echoed the emphasis on practical learning, noting that trainees are hands-on and out in the field, with real-time assessment.
Graduates described the programme as “a good learning experience”, expressing pride in the tangible skills they gained.
