Establish national registry for skilled workers
Published:Saturday | November 23, 2024 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I am writing to highlight a significant gap in Jamaica’s workforce development system, particularly as it pertains to the HEART/NSTA Trust and the challenge of connecting skilled workers with potential employers. While the HEART/NSTA Trust is pivotal in training individuals, the current process of finding qualified workers is informal and lacks a centralised, accessible platform.
In my experience, when seeking skilled workers — specifically those trained in mechanical skills — there is no formal mechanism to easily identify or access a list of trained individuals. The process is cumbersome and lacks transparency, often requiring personal connections or unreliable channels. This, I believe, is a crucial gap in the system.
To address this, the HEART/NSTA Trust should consider establishing a national registry of skilled workers, where individuals who have completed training and certification can register their skills. Employers could then access this database, making it easier to find qualified professionals. A registry would streamline the hiring process, create more employment opportunities, and ultimately benefit both the workers and employers.
Furthermore, there is a need for a similar initiative for high-school graduates. Many school-leavers, especially those who cannot afford the fees associated with employment platforms, are left to fend for themselves. By introducing a national registry for school-leavers, these young individuals could be connected with potential employers, bridging the gap between education and employment.
The role of the HEART/NSTA Trust and the Ministry of Education should not end at training. They must also ensure that these individuals are given opportunities to enter the workforce in a meaningful way. I believe that establishing such a registry will provide both a practical solution for employers and much-needed support for individuals seeking to improve their livelihoods.
CARLTON FEARON
Brumalia, Mandeville