MORE than 170 graduates from the National Training Agency located on Gladstone Road recently received their certificates in entry-level job training for the careers of their choice.

The NTA has been operating for the last three years, placing graduates from challenged backgrounds on equal footing to compete in the nation’s workforce.

Minister of Labour and National Insurance Shane Gibson told the successful trainees: “I am beyond excited to celebrate with the 174 graduates of this cohort five this evening, and I must say you did it. The fact that you made it to this point proves to everyone, including those who doubted you, that you have what it takes to succeed.

“It wasn’t always easy, and there were times when some of you probably felt like giving up. But you made it a priority to learn the skills and gain the experience required to earn a respectable living, and I applaud you for that.”

The ceremony took place on January 25 at Holy Trinity Activities Centre in Stapledon Gardens.

“Graduates, when you leave here today, you will not just walk away with a certificate. You are now part of a legacy that includes some 2,000 young Bahamians, who participated in the National Training Agency job preparation and training programme over the last three years,” said Mr Gibson added.

“Today, you become alumni of one of the most successful programmes in our country. The programme that has transformed the lives of many young persons like yourselves.

“As a result of the government’s decision to provide access to competency-based skills training free of charge, the quality of life has significantly improved for a growing number of Bahamians.”

Mr Gibson concluded by illuminating the purpose of the NTA.

“By establishing the National Training Agency, the government has made an unprecedented commitment to the development of the young Bahamian between the ages of 16 and 26, and is aggressively addressing the challenge to preparing them for successful entry into the workforce.

“The NTA is not a school, college or institution. It does not have classrooms, labs, instructors, or teachers. Instead, the agency provides a social service, which is designed to operate as a safety net to catch those who fell through the academic cracks, and were able to achieve substantial certification. It offers a hand up.”