Minister of Labour, Public Service and National Insurance the Hon. Pia Glover-Rolle told the graduates of the National Training Agency’s (NTA) Mandatory Workforce Preparatory Programme & Practical Skills Training that they made the quiet decision to invest in themselves and to believe that training could change the direction of their lives.
“This morning, that decision is paying off. You are now graduates of the NTA, and that title means something in this country,” the Labour Minister told Cohort 27 at the graduation ceremony held at the Agency on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
“The NTA is the premier training institution of The Bahamas, built on the vision of leaders like Agatha Marcelle and carried forward today under the leadership of Kendrick Knowles, Dr. Nicole Andrews, and the rest of the dedicated NTA team.”
She explained that the NTA has consistently adjusted its training to match job market demands, ensuring that the skills and course materials learned are current, rigorous, and useful when it is time to apply them in real-world settings.
The Minister also noted that as the graduates celebrate, they must remember that graduation is only the beginning of their story.
“The skills you gained here are just the foundation. What you build on that foundation is now in your hands. More opportunities are waiting for you to claim them.”
She said if they want further certification, BTVI offers specialized training at no cost.
The Creative and Performing Arts School (CAPAS) gives those with creative and artistic talent room to develop and grow.
Upskill and DigiLearn deliver online training for free.
The Labour Minister also noted that those interested in working for government should keep an eye out for the next cohort of the Public Service Professional Engagement Programme.
She added, “For those seeking private sector opportunities, the National Apprenticeship Programme is expanding in the near future, with employment opportunities in leading industries.”
The Labour Minister explained that they can also register for the Government’s free Jobseekers portal and skills database, a tool that can match their new qualifications with employers searching for people like them.
“All these opportunities are free and open to you should you desire to enhance your skills or take on new opportunities.
“This is what we are working toward as a Government.
“We are widening access to training, upskilling, and education, because a more skilled workforce raises our national productivity levels and qualifies Bahamians for higher-paying jobs.”
The Minister said, “We are building the systems that will open doors and connect you to unprecedented opportunities.”
Participants complete four weeks of comprehensive soft skills and personal development, followed by 10 weeks of hands-on technical training. Trainees in Cohort 27 specialized in several key workplace disciplines, including:
Business Applications & Technology
Culinary & Baking
Auto Body Repair
Teacher’s Aide
Customer Service
Food and Beverage Service.
