GOVERNMENT OF SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TRAINING

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, September 23, 2025 (SKNIS) – The Ministry of Education officially launched the Christopher-Wilkin Institute of Technology (CWIT) on Monday, September 22. This groundbreaking national training institute is set to transform the delivery of vocational education, expand opportunities for students, and ensure the long-term sustainability of skills development across Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The CWIT represents the strategic merger of three Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions: the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC), Project Strong, and the National Skills Training Programme (NSTP).

Speaking at the launch ceremony, held on the AVEC grounds, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, described the initiative as a bold step toward revolutionising vocational training in the Federation. He noted that CWIT will provide demand-driven, competency-based education aligned with international occupational standards.

“Together, these institutions have served thousands of young people, equipping them with the skills, confidence and resilience to thrive in a changing world. By merging these entities, we are not only streamlining resources. We are strengthening our commitment to inclusive, high-quality, and future-ready education,” said Dr. Hanley.

The deputy prime minister also paid tribute to the institute’s namesakes, Fitzroy Wilkin and the late Clyde Christopher, two pioneers whose contributions laid the foundation for technical and vocational training in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

“Their contributions were not just institutional; they were deeply personal. They believed in the power of education to uplift, to empower, and to transform lives. Today, we honour that belief. They laboured so that we could bear the fruits,” Dr. Hanley added.

The Christopher-Wilkin Institute of Technology will deliver National and Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (NVQ/CVQ) from Levels 1 to 3, and provide a more cost-effective way to train and certify individuals for the workforce.

Additionally, CWIT will implement a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme and provide a clear operational framework to support smooth progression from secondary-level training to higher education institutions.

The CWIT headquarters will be located at the former AVEC compound at Taylor’s in Basseterre, marking a new chapter in the Federation’s commitment to empowering its citizens through skills training and education.

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