Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson moderated the panel discussion on TVET Day on May 6, 2025. Photo: Provided

Education Officer for TVET, Ms Carima Wilson-Solomon was particularly empathic about correcting the perception that TVET is a fallback for so-called ‘slower students’. Photo: Facebook

Some of the members of the panel discussion on TVET Day on May 6, 2025. Photo: Facebook

The observance featured a well-attended panel discussion featuring students, educators and technical officers. The activity aimed to elevate the image of TVET and its vital role in national development, economic sustainability, and youth empowerment in the Territory.

Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson—moderating the activity— called for an end to outdated attitudes that frame TVET as inferior to traditional academic routes.

“Even when I was in high school, there was a sort of stigma attached to being in a technical programme. Thankfully, that has changed — but we still have work to do.”

Demand never disappears

“I feel like TVET is in my DNA,” said Dr Smith-Thompson, who has served in the Virgin Islands as a TVET teacher, Ministry of Education official, Vice President of Academic Affairs at HLSCC, and now Caribbean Liaison Officer for the International Vocational Education and Training Association.

To this end, she sought to reiterate the importance of using platforms like ‘TVET-Day’ to dispel myths and raise awareness about the diverse and rewarding opportunities available through technical and vocational education.

“We need to take advantage of every opportunity to let people understand the opportunities that exist in TVET and to break down the myths; You always need trained TVET personnel — whether electricians, plumbers, or cosmetologists — the demand never disappears.”

It’s all Entrepreneurship

Meanwhile, Education Officer for TVET, Ms Carima Wilson-Solomon, also echoed the sentiments, and provided concrete examples of the broad spectrum of careers accessible through TVET training.

“TVET encompasses a lot of different subject areas; At our secondary schools here in the Virgin Islands, we offer woodwork, metalwork, drawing, painting, clothing and textiles, food and nutrition, cosmetology — and the list goes on.”

Pointing to practical and professional pathways that students can pursue, she noted that, “From technical drawing leading to architecture, to mechanics as vehicles evolve, to cosmetology, where you can specialise in massage therapy, beauty services, or set up your own spa — it’s all entrepreneurship.”

Breaking misconceptions

Ms Wilson-Solomon was particularly empathic about correcting the perception that TVET is a fallback for so-called “slower students.”

“There’s a stigma that technical classes are for those who are not as academically inclined; Even when I was in high school, it was frowned upon. But it was about learning the skill and understanding how it can be used beyond the classroom for a sustainable life after high school and into tertiary education.”

As such, she stressed that showcasing students’ work is crucial for breaking these misconceptions.

“When our students are choosing their senior classes, they don’t always know what to expect. But when they see the work on display, when they see students and teachers in action, they understand what’s possible; That’s when they start to see the potential.”

The session also drew attention to the tangible economic potential that TVET offers, not just in securing employment, but in driving entrepreneurship, local innovation, and self-sufficiency.

Viable, lucrative professions

“TVET can lead to becoming a plumber, a contractor, an engineer, a civil engineer, or working in cinematography and stage production; These are viable, lucrative professions — not side options.”

Additionally, Dr Smith-Thompson added that even though TVET’s structured presence in the Virgin Islands is relatively young, compared to other economies, the territory is catching up quickly.

“The objective is to raise awareness through sharing practical skills, highlighting relevance to the job market, and addressing misconceptions about its value,” she said. “We also want to highlight career opportunities, financial benefits, and promote lifelong learning.”

According to Dr Smith-Thompson, “You’re never out of a job when you have technical skills, it’s time to stop looking down on TVET and start recognising it for what it truly is — the foundation of a thriving economy.”