Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Dominica
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Dominica is a strategic initiative aimed at equipping individuals with practical skills and competencies that align with the nation’s socio-economic development goals. Administered by the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence, TVET programs enhance employability, foster entrepreneurship, and support national productivity.
Governance and Strategic Direction
The Dominica TVET Council plays a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation and quality assurance of TVET programs across the island. Operating under the Ministry of Education, the Council collaborates with industry stakeholders to ensure that training programs meet current labour market demands. This collaboration is instrumental in aligning educational outcomes with the skills required in various sectors of the economy.
Program Offerings and Certification
TVET in Dominica encompasses a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, construction, hospitality, information technology, and health services. Training is delivered through accredited institutions such as the Dominica State College, Goodwill Secondary School, and various community-based organisations. Programs are competency-based, emphasising hands-on experience and practical application of skills.
Upon successful completion of training, participants are awarded certifications that are nationally and regionally recognised. These include the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) and the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ), which validate the individual’s proficiency in specific occupational areas and facilitate mobility within the CARICOM region.
Recent Developments and Initiatives
In recent years, Dominica has made significant strides in enhancing its TVET landscape. Notably, the inaugural NVQ Certificate Award Ceremony was held in August 2024, recognizing 60 individuals who completed various skills programs under the Skills for Youth Employment (SkYE) initiative between 2019 and 2022. This event underscored the government’s commitment to formalising vocational training and providing nationally recognised qualifications.
Further advancements were marked in April 2025, when 45 individuals received NVQ certifications after completing training programs supported by the Ministry of Education, SkYE, and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). These programs focused on building competencies in areas critical to national development and disaster resilience.
Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
TVET is integral to Dominica’s vision for sustainable development and economic resilience. By providing structured pathways for skill acquisition and professional development, TVET programs aim to reduce unemployment, especially among young people, and address skill shortages in key industries. The government’s ongoing investment in TVET infrastructure, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement reflects a long-term commitment to building a competent and adaptable workforce.
Looking ahead, Dominica plans to expand TVET offerings, increase the number of accredited training centres, and introduce new occupational standards in partnership with the private sector. These efforts align with the nation’s broader objectives of fostering innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and promoting inclusive economic growth.