News
TCI Community College TVET Programme Empowers Inmates and Officers with Certifications at His Majesty’s Prison
#TurksandCaicos, September 15, 2023 – Five (5) inmates and nine (9) Correctional Officers at His Majesty’s Prison have successfully obtained internationally recognised certifications through the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Community College’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) PLAR programme. This represents 100% passes in the skill areas of Customer Service and Commercial Food Preparation. The individuals are now eligible to receive their Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) Level 1 certificates during the upcoming College Graduation exercise. This historic accomplishment marks a significant milestone in the rehabilitation and skills development of incarcerated individuals and capacity building for correctional officers within the Turks and Caicos
Islands penal system.
A tri-partite partnership, signed on 17 November 2022, officially brought together the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, His Majesty’s Prison (formerly the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation), and the HJ Robinson High School. Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the entities joined forces to deliver high-quality technical vocational education and training to inmates and officers in recognition of the pivotal role training and skills development plays in the rehabilitation process.
The MOU signing was witnessed by several government ministers, including Hon. Rachel Taylor, Hon. Josephine Connolly, Hon. Otis Morris, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, and Hon. Shaun Malcolm. Senior government and education officials were also present to witness the historic event signaling their intent and commitment to the programme.
Training for this cohort commenced in August 2022 and they sat the PLAR Challenge Exam in February 2023. Aspects of the examinations were proctored virtually and formed the basis for the College to utilise technology to deliver training and assessment to this unique cohort. This intervention provided the benchmark for the TCICC’s success, which earned the team first place in the Blended Challenge at the recently concluded International Conference of TVET within the Caribbean.
“A TVET system is only as strong as the institution that provides the education and training. The tripartite approach to this initiative will indeed provide the relevant rehabilitation for our inmates that will allow them to transition into the labour force and live healthy and productive lives. I look forward to our team providing certification in other areas as the programme progresses. Once again, congratulations to all wardens and inmates and I encourage you to continue to capitalise from the opportunities that presents itself,” expressed Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education.
Hon. Otis Morris, Minister for Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy and Utilities and Telecommunications Commission, joined in congratulating the trainees on completing this milestone, he continued by stating, “This is a significant achievement that reflects your dedication, hard work, and commitment to your education and career development. As you move forward in your journey, remember that the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired during this program will be invaluable in your chosen field. Your determination has brought you to this milestone, and I have no doubt that you’ll continue to excel in your future endeavours. Best wishes for a bright and successful career ahead! As the minister responsible for the DCR I’m elated to have supported this programme and look forward to it’s continuous success.”
The success of the TVET programme at His Majesty’s Prison depends heavily on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Dr. Candice Williams, President of TCI Community College, urged employers to value the certifications earned by inmates by offering employment opportunities to those who’ve completed their certifications. This
supports rehabilitation and fosters a more productive workforce for our community.
Mr. Michael Woodbine, Superintendent of Prisons and Director of Rehabilitation lauded the programme by stating, “Working with a widely recognised partner such as TVET really does enable us to support prisoners in their rehabilitation, training and work experience. Gaining high-quality recognised qualifications, and being able to demonstrate and practice those skills in the prison really does help people to prepare for their release. This first programme, which saw staff and prisoners achieving together, is just the start and we will work with TVET to broaden our offer of skilled and meaningful training, helping and supporting people who leave the prison in gaining meaningful work as they return to being productive members of our communities.”
Mr. Kevin Baxter, TVET Dean, highlighted the significant growth and impact the TVET programme has experienced and emphasised the programme’s continued dedication to its partnership with His Majesty’s Prison and the secondary school system. He stated, “TVET’s expansion underscores the importance of equipping inmates with workforce-ready skills and competence thereby fostering a seamless transition into society after incarceration”.
The TCI Community College’s TVET programme has proven to be a beacon of hope, offering incarcerated individuals a path towards personal growth, rehabilitation, and a brighter future. As the partnership continues to flourish and additional skill areas are included, it is anticipated that additional inmates and correctional officers will benefit from this transformative initiative.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – May 14th, 2024 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Government and Molo Hotel Group reached a pivotal juncture on Monday, May 13th, 2024, with the ceremonial signing of a development agreement at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales. The agreement, which received official Cabinet approval on March 13th, 2024, signifies a steadfast commitment to advancing the economic landscape of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Molo Hotel Group is a family-owned business, renowned for its distinguished portfolio of high-quality hotels worldwide. The
development initiative encompasses the construction of three distinct IHG branded hotels: InterContinental Turks and Caicos, Kimpton Turks and Caicos and Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos. Scheduled for completion by 2027, each resort boasts a distinctive design from luxury to laidback sophistication spanning across the shores of Grace Bay Beach.
Kimpton Turks and Caicos – an epitome of luxury lifestyle living, will feature 192 guest rooms including three outdoor pools, a luxury spa and a fitness center. Additionally, seven dining options ranging from a beachfront restaurant to a rooftop bar.
Adjacent to the Kimpton, InterContinental Turks and Caicos will offer 59 classic luxury suites with panoramic ocean views. Mirroring its counterpart, this resort will offer an array of dining options and upscale facilities.
Steps away from the Intercontinental and Kimpton resorts, Hotel Indigo Turks and Caicos will embrace a sense of community and contemporary elegance, offering 56 bedrooms. The resort will feature an onsite restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, and fitness room.
Beyond the realm of hospitality, this development agreement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing employment opportunities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Molo is partnering with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) to actively promote hospitality as a career choice and support in developing training programs, career fairs, seminars, workshops, and events to raise awareness about hospitality careers. Molo has committed to provide employment and apprentice opportunities to TCICC students and provide mentoring and practical on property training to students.
The signing event was graced by Hon. Charles Washington Missick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Łukasz and Marcin Slominski, Owners of Molo, Ross Morrow, Managing Director Molo, Arik Kono, Vice President Upscale Development for IHG, Dr. Candice Williams, President and CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Angela Musgrove, InvestTCI CEO, Dr. Barbara Ambrister, Chairperson of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Dr. Delores Stapleton- Harris, Vice President of Academic, Vocational and Student Affairs for the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, Mr. Kevin Baxter, Dean of Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Sheryl McLaughlin, InvestTCI Investment Services Executive.
Commenting on the development agreement, Premier, Hon. Misick, stated “The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing of
IHG/Molo Hotels is a significant step towards a sustainable future for hospitality in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Three hotels, Kimpton, Intercontinental, and Hotel Indigo, will be introduced, enhancing our tourism product and creating employment opportunities.”
He further added, “Partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission are underway, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to developing human capital and elevating tourism offerings. This project will bring economic growth, embrace local talent, and enrich our economy.”
Additionally, Mrs. Angela Musgrove, CEO of Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasized “This collaboration confirms our commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity within our country. We have worked closely with Molo Hotel Group, and we are confident that this transformative project will further position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier destination for travel and investment. Much to our delight, it will also provide opportunities for engagement with our Community College and small business community.”
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands, operating through its primary Investment Promotion
Agency, Invest Turks and Caicos Islands, remains committed to attracting and facilitating Foreign Direct Investments to the country by providing a comprehensive suite of services. Through strategic initiatives and targeted promotion, the agency catalyzes sustainable development, driving innovation and small business opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – Detectives of the Serious Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force have
charged a man who allegedly stole a vehicle.
The accused, DANVANTE BRISCO, 30, of Kew Town, Providenciales, was charged with:
- One Count: Robbery
- One Count: Taking Motor Vehicle Without Authority
- One Count: Using Offensive Weapon to cause fear
Mr. BRISCO appeared in court today (May 13 ) and was granted bail of $7500.00 with one surety.
The matter was adjourned to July 05 for a Sufficiency Hearing.
#TurksandCaicos, May 13, 2024 – A 20-year-old Dock Yard male appeared in court today (May 13th) charged with a series of firearm-related offences.
The accused, JAMES SIMON, was denied bail and remanded into custody pending a Sufficiency Hearing scheduled for July 05th, 2024.
Mr. SIMON faces the following charges:
- One Count: Robbery;
- One Count: Gang Membership
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm for the Benefit of a Gang
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition for the Benefit of a Gang.
The charges against Mr. Simon followed investigations by officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into a robbery at the parking lot of a Casino where three males robbed a victim.
Additionally, Mr. Simon is charged with the following offences, having been arrested on May 02nd, 2024, along South Dock Road.
- One Count: Possession of a Firearm
- One Count: Possession of Ammunition
- One Count: Unlawful Entry
Officers also charged a teenage minor who was in the company of Mr. Simon on May 02nd with One Count of UNLAWFUL ENTRY.
The accused, seventeen and from Kew Town, Providenciales, pleaded guilty and will be sentenced on May 20th.
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