The Ministry of Education will this academic year introduce a new initiative which will enhance the technical skills of Secondary school students which will better prepare them for the workplace.
Minister for Education and Human Resource Development Hon. Petter Saint spoke of plans to implement the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) programme at all Government High schools at a press conference on Tuesday.
Hon. Saint Jean explained that the introduction of the CVQ’s at secondary schools is in keeping with his Ministry’s vision of making technical education an important part of the school’s Curriculum.
“This programme seeks to ensure that students receive technical skill development in various areas and that they are more prepared to face the regional and global work market. In other words, on completion of high school these young people can be more marketable and ready for the job market by giving them a competitive advantage and being able to meet up with their Caribbean counterparts.” explained the Minister.
The Caribbean Vocational Qualification or CVQ is a broad-based preparation for employment and provides an alternative route to further or higher education. The CVQ’S has parallel standing with academic qualifications at same level and will complement the academic track.
The CVQ’s is a recognized and portable Qualification in CARICOM and the rest of the world and will ensure that students will be able to perform in the workplace.
The implementation of the CVQ’s forms part of the Ministry of Education’s enhancement project.
The Government of Dominica has contracted a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to fund the CVQ programs.