St. Kitts and Nevis Government Invests in Education and Workforce Training for 2025 

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing education and workforce training through digital transformation and enhanced Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

During his 2025 Budget Address on Monday, Prime Minister Drew announced significant upgrades for the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC), aimed at modernising training programmes with cutting-edge technology.

“The 2025 Budget will facilitate upgrades at AVEC, including the introduction of immersive welding and painting simulators that use Virtual Reality (VR) technology,” Dr. Drew stated. “This will shorten the learning curve, improve skills, boost productivity, and reduce energy consumption, waste, and accidents.”

Smart classrooms will also be outfitted to enhance teaching and learning experiences.The prime minister emphasised that enhancing TVET is key to creating a sustainable island state with expanded employment opportunities. Ongoing collaboration with the TVET Secretariat and Council will position St. Kitts and Nevis as a regional leader in workforce development for emerging industries.

Dr. Drew also highlighted progress in renewable energy training through a partnership with Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated. He noted the establishment of the Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training at the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) earlier this year.

“The Centre, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme, will offer training in solar PV installation and electric vehicle maintenance and repair, making CFBC a regional hub for renewable energy innovation,” he said.These investments align with the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda, promoting renewable energy, skills development in agriculture and the creative economy, and reducing reliance on food imports.-30-