The HEART/NSTA Trust has advanced the national technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system, integrating cyber-physical components into various programmes.

These enhancements focus on the top 20 programmes identified as key drivers for technological advancement and productivity growth within the industry.

The HEART/NSTA Trust aims to enhance vocational education and training by incorporating cyber-physical components, fostering a more resilient and competitive workforce.

Director for Training Infrastructure Development at HEART/NSTA Dwayne Bent, said “Over the years we may not have been focusing on the continuous trends and the standards that affect the fourth and fifth revolution technologies.”

Bent said 27 occupational areas have been upgraded and launched into the national TVET system to date.

“We have intensified our effort, working with lead groups, and what we have been doing is integrating the cyber-physical component into [our] programmes,” he added.

The top programmes are Coding, Mobile and Aerial Robotics, Automotive Technology, Building Decorating and Finishing and Agricultural Technology.

“These areas, in addition to the others, together encapsulate what is required to drive industries across the world with the use of the cyber-physical system,” Bent said.

“The HEART/NSTA Trust is making a promise to Jamaica, and we are implementing, incrementally, these technologies that are permeating the industry right across the world,” Bent said.

“While we are strengthening the physical expansion to accommodate these programmes, we are also strengthening the implementation of software simulators and smart technology devices,” he added.

The HEART/NSTA Trust is collaborating with industry partners to align technologies with World Skills International and Industrial Standards, while also collaborating with local industries.