Launch of The Industrial-Mechanical Apprenticeship Programme (I-MAP)

Prime Minister Dr the Hon Keith Rowley officially launched the Industrial-Mechanical Apprenticeship Programme (I-MAP) at the Heritage Industrial Compound today (Monday 25th March, 2024).

I-MAP is a strategic social stainability partnership between the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service and Heritage Petroleum Company Limited. It is aligned with the Government’s vision 2030 National Development Strategy, the National Youth Policy of Trinidad and Tobago and the social stainability agenda of Heritage Petroleum Company Limited.

This 15-month programme will allow 50 individuals, aged 18- 35 years old the opportunity to acquire skills in welding, machining, electrical and mechanical works within the oil and gas sector. The programme also incorporates a nine-month apprenticeship component, designed to enhance employability and nurture entrepreneurial skills tailored towards the energy sector.

In his feature address, Prime Minister Rowley said that the Government through programmes such as this, continues to create opportunities for the young people of this country. He said the upskilling of individuals beyond secondary school is just as important as the emphasis placed on the Secondary Entrance Assessment.

Dr Rowley called on the nation to support and encourage young people to enrol in the skills training programmes.

Also present at today’s launch were the Minister of Youth Development and National Service, the Hon. Foster Cummings, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, the Hon. Stuart Young, Minister of Rural Development and Local Government and Member of Parliament for San Fernando West, the Hon. Faris Al-Rawi, Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for La Brea, the Hon. Stephen Mc Clashie and Chairman of Heritage Petroleum Company Limited, Mr Micheal Quamina S.C.