Ninety-six teachers have received Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) certification through the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), as part of its programme to strengthen technical and vocational teaching.
According to a release issued today, Education Minister Sonia Parag urged the teachers to use their skills to improve instruction and challenged the perception that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is inferior to traditional academic education.
“Technical and vocational education is not a lesser pathway. It is essential to preparing our people for the opportunities ahead and building a skilled workforce that can contribute to Guyana’s continued development,” Parag said.
She encouraged the recipients to take pride in their achievement, share their knowledge and inspire students in their institutions.
Deputy Chief Education Officer–Technical Dr Ritesh Tularam said the qualification demonstrated both occupational competence and a commitment to professional development.
“The achievement of a CVQ represents a commitment to nationally and regionally recognised occupational standards. It demonstrates that an individual has acquired and can apply the practical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to perform effectively in a particular occupational area,” he said.
Tularam urged the teachers to apply their skills in the classroom and mentor colleagues, while emphasising the importance of continued professional development in competency-based training and assessment.
The CVQ programme became mandatory in 2023 for CPCE students specialising in Agricultural Science, Industrial Technology, Home Economics and Visual Arts. That year, 121 TVET students across the college’s seven coastal centres were introduced to the programme.
CPCE also undertook staff training to support its delivery. In April 2023, 14 full-time and part-time lecturers participated in Competency-Based Education and Training.
The college initially offered seven occupational areas, registering students through partner institutions, including the Linden, Essequibo and Guyana technical institutes, practical instruction centres and the Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre.
CPCE began seeking registration as a CVQ institution in November 2024 and obtained it in June 2025. This allows the college to register students directly for certification, the release said.
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