SVGCC looking to bigger things in the future

The Division of Technical and Vocational Education of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) Technical Vocational division is establishing linkages with various education institutions of higher learning for its students.{{more}}

Dean of Division, Joseph Mapp, disclosed this during their graduation ceremony for the 2006/07 academic year at the New Testament Church last Thursday, December 6.

According to Mapp, these linkages for higher learning will allow the students training to articulate with higher programmes.

In echoing his point, Director of the SVGCC, Dr. Veronica Marks, said articulating arrangements have already been finalized in the fields of Hospitality and Business Studies and the college is currently working with the University of the West Indies (UWI) and other reputable institutions to secure articulation.

Articulation, according to her, is one that is adopted to deal with the matter of accreditation, which is an uphill task.

“Both the Division and the entire institution look forward to the establishment of the National Accreditation Body and the establishment of OECS Sub-regional Accreditation body,” Marks told the gathering.

Marks is of the opinion that the National Accreditation Body will help to alleviate some of the difficulties that are associated with accreditation.

Despite the fact that some persons prefer to pursue studies in the general subject areas, Mapp is adamant that although it this good, it is also important that they have a skill to go along with what they have already acquired.

“It is well accepted that we need to have a skill. Yes, know your Math, know your Chemistry, know your Biology, but you need a skill to go along with your training,” he stated.

“The introduction of the Caribbean Single Market, and Economy (CSME) and the Treaty of Chagaramus in January 2006 have given way to the creation of a new market which means that we will have to be more competitive,” he added.

“It means that whatever product you put on the market it must be of a better quality,” he advised the graduates.

He also pointed out the fact that the certificate that they offered at the school, following successful completion of the course, is recognized in any part of the world where students may travel in search of jobs, although some persons may have doubts.

A total of 159 students participated in the graduation ceremony, with the Student of the Year award going to Richard Salandy, who also captured the award for Electrical Installation. The Spirit of the College award was given to Zando Peters, while the Most outstanding Student of 1st year was Jenson Ollivierre. (SB)