Government of Jamaica Focuses on Upskilling Workers for Rapid Economic Growth

Photo: Adrian Walker, Jamaica Information Service.

Prime Minister’s Address

Prime Minister Andrew Holness outlined the Government’s plan to focus on upskilling workers as part of a plan to produce more rapid economic growth in the island nation. In his landmark address titled: ‘The Next Chapter: Pivot to Inclusive Growth’, delivered at the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday (November 19), Dr. Holness emphasized the importance of investing in human capital development.

Shortage of Skilled Labour

Dr. Holness revealed that approximately 60 per cent of the workforce currently has no formal training. He stated that this shortage of skilled labour restricts the country’s growth and that the Government will invest heavily in preparing the workforce for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Strengthening TVET Programmes

To achieve this goal, the Government will be strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes, and investing in upskilling and reskilling the workforce to prepare Jamaicans for high-value, high-wage jobs. The Prime Minister informed that the Government is currently working on the establishment of the Jamaica Institute of Technology, in partnership with the Government of India’s National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology.

Initiatives to Support Human Capital Development

The Government has already removed all tuition and administrative fees for HEART/NSTA courses up to Level 4 (Associate Degree), and removed the guarantor requirement for student loans. The Learning and Investment for Transformation (LIFT) Programme has also been implemented, and the Community Action for Rewarding Engagement (CARE) Programme for unattached youth is about to be launched.

Skills On-Demand App

The HEART/NSTA’s Skills On-Demand app, which will be launched soon, is a digital platform designed to connect certified, skilled professionals with individuals and businesses needing their services. This app is the latest development in a series of initiatives to ensure Jamaicans have an efficient and seamless solution for accessing reliable technical workmen.

Conclusion

The Government’s focus on upskilling workers is a crucial step towards achieving rapid economic growth in Jamaica. By investing in human capital development, the country can prepare its workforce for high-value, high-wage jobs and drive economic growth.

FAQs

* What is the Government’s plan to address the shortage of skilled labour?
+ The Government will invest heavily in preparing the workforce for the opportunities of tomorrow by strengthening TVET programmes and upskilling and reskilling the workforce.
* What initiatives has the Government implemented to support human capital development?
+ The Government has removed tuition and administrative fees for HEART/NSTA courses up to Level 4, removed the guarantor requirement for student loans, implemented the LIFT Programme, and is about to launch the CARE Programme for unattached youth.
* What is the Skills On-Demand app?
+ The Skills On-Demand app is a digital platform designed to connect certified, skilled professionals with individuals and businesses needing their services.