Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) and Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated (GSI) proudly announce a transformative partnership to establish the Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training. This pioneering initiative will be unveiled on 9th April 2024 and aims to position St. Kitts and the wider Caribbean region at the forefront of sustainable innovation and skilled workforce development. The Centre, which will focus on solar photovoltaic (PV) installation and electric vehicles (EV) maintenance and repairs, will be housed within the College’s Technical Vocational Education and Management Studies (TVEMS) Division.
The Project
The project will begin with a six-week “Train-the-Trainer” workshop, featuring five weeks of online, self-paced instruction and a one-week face-to-face, hands-on practical component. As the regional hub for training in solar PV installation and EV maintenance and repairs, the Centre will fill a significant gap in the Eastern Caribbean, where comparable comprehensive PV and EV training and services are scarce.
Funded by the GEF (Global Environment Facility) Small Grants Programme at an estimated cost of US$116,900, the training will be offered free the first time around for CFBC to build its capacity to sustain the project. The partnership between CFBC and GSI was formalised through a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed on 20th November 2023.
The Benefits
The Centre and its associated initiatives represent a major stride towards realising a sustainable energy future for the Caribbean region. By equipping local and regional professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to innovate and implement sustainable energy solutions, the Centre aims to drive economic growth, enhance environmental protection, and improve the quality of life across the region.
A Sustainable Future for the Caribbean
In March 2023, GSI entered into an exclusive international partnership agreement with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners® (NABCEP®) to establish NABCEP Caribbean, the first regional solar energy training and development hub. Notably, NABCEP’s PV Installation Professional (PVIP®) Certification is accredited to the internationally recognised ISO/IEC 17024 by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Commenting on the launch of the Centre, Dr Wayne E. Archibald, Executive Director, GSI, said, “I am thrilled to announce the establishment of the Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation and Workforce Training with our valued partner, the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College. This initiative represents a collaborative effort to drive innovation, foster research excellence, and empower the Caribbean workforce sustainably. The Centre will raise the standard for solar installations and maintenance and increase employability opportunities for talented, qualified Caribbean nationals in one of the fastest-growing industries, regionally and internationally. This pivotal step has the potential to unlock the region’s full renewable energy capacity.”
Key Objectives
- Promoting Innovation: The Centre will provide a platform for professionals, entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses to collaborate and innovate to address regional challenges.
- Advancing Research: Recognising the importance of research in driving progress and informing policymaking, the Centre will support research initiatives focused on sustainability.
- Strengthening the Workforce: The Centre will focus on bridging the skills gap and fostering lifelong learning in the renewable energy industry. It will offer a range of workforce development programmes designed to equip individuals with the skills and competencies needed to create a sustainable region. These vocational training courses will help provide pathways to empower the Caribbean workforce and enhance employability in the ‘green economy’.
About Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College is a leading institution in St. Kitts dedicated to providing high-quality academic, professional, and vocational courses and programmes. Focusing on innovation, research, and workforce development, the college plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Caribbean through sustainable development and capacity building.
About Green Solutions International SKN Inc
Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated is a non-governmental organisation committed to helping countries in the Caribbean achieve sustainability. Through capacity building, project development, education and training, the organisation supports the region’s transition to renewable energy sources, promoting environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change.
Conclusion
The Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training represents a significant step towards realising a sustainable energy future for the Caribbean region. By equipping local and regional professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to innovate and implement sustainable energy solutions, the Centre aims to drive economic growth, enhance environmental protection, and improve the quality of life across the region.
FAQs
What is the Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training?
The Caribbean Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation, and Workforce Training is a pioneering initiative established through a partnership between Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College and Green Solutions International SKN Incorporated. The Centre aims to equip local and regional professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to innovate and implement sustainable energy solutions.
What is the focus of the Centre?
The Centre will focus on solar photovoltaic (PV) installation and electric vehicles (EV) maintenance and repairs, filling a significant gap in the Eastern Caribbean region where comparable comprehensive PV and EV training and services are scarce.
What is the estimated cost of the project?
The estimated cost of the project is US$116,900, funded by the GEF (Global Environment Facility) Small Grants Programme.
When will the Centre be unveiled?
The Centre will be unveiled on 9th April 2024.