The construction boom, predicted to be the largest ever in the history of Barbados, will see the start of multiple public and private sector projects which already have Planning and Development Department (PDD) approval.

To support this massive increase in construction activity, the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training is launching the Barbados Construction Gateway Training Initiative (BCGTI). Under this initiative, over 5000 males and females will receive skills training in a number of areas enabling them to fill various types of jobs generated by the increased construction activity.

Some of the government-initiated projects include sewerage solutions for the Belle, Belleview, Bailey’s Alley and Chapman Lane; the Speightstown and Constitution River flood mitigation; the placement of solar panels on the roofs of all government buildings; and national road rehabilitation.

Private sector-driven projects to be undertaken during this period include Indigo Hotel; the Hyatt Ziva Hotel; Sam Lord’s Castle; Sagicor Estates; Discovery Bay/Royalton; Margaritaville; Marriott refurbishment; Apes Hill, Sandals, and Crane expansion; Townhouses at Porters; as well as a cineplex and commercial centre at Welches, St Thomas.

Training for the BCGTI will be facilitated by the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI), the Barbados Vocational Training Board (BVTB), the TVET Council Barbados, the Barbados Community College (BCC) and the Division of Youth Affairs. No previous qualifications are required.