Inaugural Leonora Training Centre batch graduates

Mar 22, 2013 News

As 140 youths graduate from the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre at Groenveldt, its Administrator, Ms. Chung Hinds, warned that the entity is not a “dropout” centre. Her statement stemmed from the fact that although being in operation for just over one year, the centre has already recorded a 45 percent dropout rate.
Hinds pointed out that she is extremely satisfied with the results, and is proud of those who chose to stay and endure the hard work. Of the 253 persons who initially started, 61 were female.

A section of the graduating class of 2012

The courses undertaken by the students included Agri-Mechanic, Carpentry, Data Operations, Electrical Installation, General Office Administration (Office Clerk), Metal Work Engineering, Motor Vehicle Repairs (Cars and Light trucks), and welding.
Despite it being known that these technical areas are male dominated, it was a female who was named the best graduating student of the institution. She is Sheena Goodridge who pursued Metal Work Engineering, something that the young lady loves to do, without even thinking twice about breaking a nail, or getting her clothes all greasy.
In speaking with Kaieteur News yesterday, the ecstatic youngster noted that she worked had, putting her best effort in becoming the best graduating student. She revealed that she is already attached to Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). She is undergoing a programme there, and it is likely that she will soon become an employee.
Goodridge is aiming at making a thriving career out of Metal Work Engineering, as working with machines is her passion.
The other graduates described their time at the institution as one that has taught them many things, and has prepared them for the world of work. They also called on their peers to get enrolled at the centre, and “do something good with their lives”.
Meanwhile, in speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education in the absence of its Minister, Priya Manickchand, Assistant Chief Education Officer Melcita Bovell congratulated the students who chose to complete the various courses, and noted that the parents should be proud, since their children will be leaving the institution with not only skills, but with morals, and respect for what they do, and those around them.

Best graduating student, Sheena Goodridge

She noted that graduating from the institution, are the future builders of Guyana. Their importance in society, she said, is vital, asking the question”What would you do when you need a (fully qualified and capable) plumber?”
Bovell also expressed disappointment for those who dropped out of their respective courses, and also called for these dropouts to return in the new school year.
In closing, the education official thanked the parents of the graduating students who, by supporting their children, supported the future of Guyana.
The Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre was officially opened in November of 2011. The $427.5M institution has the capacity to house 250 full-time students and 200 part-time.