With lessons from Jamaica, Guyana to establish ‘Sector Skills Councils’

The role of technical and vocational education is now more important than ever because of the great demand for skilled labour to support Guyana’s rapidly developing economy. And so a 10-year National TVET Policy was established. In that policy, there are various objectives and strategic priorities, including the establishment of Sector Skills Councils. This is a strategic measure to bridge the gap between TVET and the demands of the country’s rapidly developing economy.

So what is this skills council all about?

Jamaica was the first Caribbean country to establish a Sector Skills Council. That body successfully supported quality and relevant skills development across various sectors. Now, Guyana hopes to adopt a similar model.

This venture will guarantee the smooth transition of TVET graduates from training into proper jobs and or self-employment roles. Right now, the Council for TVET organises “Group Leads” to develop and validate occupational standards on a request basis, aimed at meeting sector-specific skills demand.

The Government wants to make this service more efficient and responsible. So the Sector Skills Councils, which comprises of private sector entities, will serve as the liaison between training providers and employers, ensuring that the skills imparted are both relevant and aligned with industry requirements. The core function of a Sector Skills Council is to determine the specific skills needed within an industry and then work in collaboration with training providers to tailor training programmes accordingly.

Given that private sector employers face both domestic and international competitive pressures along with regulatory challenges, they are well positioned to provide an up-to-date account of workforce skill requirements.

Once established, the Sector Skills Council in Guyana should perform a range of functions in the realm of skills training, education, and workforce development. It is also expected to serve as a negotiating forum for employers and trade unions and, finally, lead the establishment of a skills development fund or training levy in Guyana.