The $427.5M Leonora Technical and Vocational Institute officially opened one week after the scheduled date, with over 140 students starting classes on Monday.
According to Principal Celia Chung, the Institute currently has 25 female students and hopes to see many more registered. She said that registration is ongoing.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand had told Stabroek News that the institute was set for a January 17 opening. However, sources said this was not met because of the lack of lecturers. Now, with the full complement, classes have commenced.
The Institute was commissioned by former Minister of Education Shaik Baksh on November 21. Students can pursue studies in several fields: Agriculture Mechanic, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, Fitting and Machinery, Masonry, Motor Vehicle Repairs, Plumbing, Welding, Information Technology and General Office Administration. In addition, students will be taught Entrepreneurship so that they can start their own businesses.
The programmes are all offered in a one-year full-time or part-time course. At the end of the year, students will be awarded a certificate that is recognized throughout the Caribbean so they can expand their talents in the region. The programme has been modified so that each student can learn at his/her own pace.
The Institute admits students 15 years and older. Those without the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) passes will have to pass an aptitude test for entry.
