
October 1 2024– In a move to bolster technical and vocational education, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand officially commissioned a newly constructed Industrial Technology Department at Patentia Secondary School in Region Three yesterday.
The $17 million facility, built by Spectre Construction, represents a significant advancement in the Ministry of Education’s mission to expand practical skills training for students across the country.

The new building is set to offer enhanced learning opportunities in areas like Technical Drawing and Building Technology, crucial for students seeking to enter both higher education and the workforce.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Manickchand highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to preparing students for well-rounded futures. “We are dedicated to equipping every child with not just academic knowledge, but also the practical skills necessary to thrive as active members of society,” she stated. “This new facility furthers that goal by providing an environment tailored for hands-on learning.”

The Industrial Technology Department, staffed by a Graduate Head of Department and supported by two instructors, will serve students from Grades 7 to 11. All students will be introduced to Technical Drawing, while those in Grades 10 and 11 will also study Building Technology.
Patentia Secondary School currently serves 724 students with a teaching staff of 57. According to Headteacher Lavern Carryl, the new department is not merely an extension but a purpose-built facility designed to improve the educational experience.
Construction of the department began in July 2023 and was completed in early November 2023 under the supervision of engineer Dominique Yan.
The Ministry of Education continues to invest in infrastructure projects like these to ensure that students can graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in the evolving job market.
This latest addition to Patentia Secondary School is a key part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to promote hands-on learning and technical education throughout the country.

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