THIRTY-THREE FIELD STAFF AND COMFORT STATION ATTENDANTS EARN CVQ QUALIFICATIONS, RECOGNIZED THROUGHOUT CARICOM.
The National Conservation Authority (NCA) has marked a historic milestone with its inaugural graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 33 graduates under the theme "Empowering Staff Through Institutional Strengthening." The momentous occasion recognized the successful completion of a training program aimed at enhancing the efficiency of field staff and comfort station attendants.
Launched in February 2024, the initiative was designed to provide professional development opportunities for NCA employees, equipping them with the necessary skills to maintain Saint Lucia’s parks, beaches, and protected areas at the highest standards. The program boasted an impressive 100 percent pass rate, demonstrating the dedication and perseverance of both participants and facilitators.
Speaking at the ceremony, Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Technical Vocational Education and Training Unit (SLU-TVET), Mr. Perry Thomas, commended the graduates and encouraged them to continue in the pursuit of excellence.
“What you have attained today has allowed for you to be very mobile in the job market. You took the opportunity to engage in lifelong learning, as one is never too old to acquire a new skill. The certificate that you now have, now has furnished you with the qualifications to further yourself in what you do” he stated.
NCA’s General Manager, Mr. James Perineau, highlighted the course’s comprehensive training and certification process, recognized across the Caribbean.
“Twenty-six conservation assistants have been trained in maintenance and parks, and protected terrestrial areas while seven comfort station attendants have completed training in housekeeping, both at CVQ level 2. This specification is recognized throughout CARICOM, opening the doors for new opportunities for employment and professional growth. We are confident that the skills of our employees have gained will directly apply to the upkeep of our beaches and protected areas, improving both environmental sustainability and public health.”
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture, and Information, Mrs. Ann Margret Adams, underscored the vital role of the graduates in preserving Saint Lucia’s natural beauty. She commended their dedication to maintaining clean and welcoming public spaces, which play a crucial role in sustaining the island’s tourism industry.
“Today marks not just the completion of a training program but the beginning of a new chapter in your professional journey. Be ambassadors of conservation, be stewards of our environment and be exemplars of professionalism in all that you do. Your work is integral to the success of our tourism industry and to the sustainable future of Saint Lucia” she affirmed.
The initiative was made possible through an $18 million investment, reflecting the commitment of the Saint Lucia Technical Vocational Education and Training institution (SLUTVET), the National Authorizing Authority (NAO) under the European Union and GEPSED Programme, and the National Conservation Authority (NCA) to workforce development and environmental sustainability.
Graduates shared heartfelt testimonies about their journey, recounting their initial fears—particularly in adapting to computer-based learning—but expressing profound gratitude to the training team for their unwavering support and encouragement.
This graduation ceremony stands as a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of education in strengthening institutions. The NCA’s initiative is expected to set a precedent for future training programs, ensuring continuous professional development within the sector.