Network Launched to Strengthen Workforce Development

Barbados has taken a significant step toward strengthening career development and workforce readiness with the official launch of the National Career Advisory Network (NCAN), an initiative designed to better align education, training and employment across the island.

The network brings together career practitioners, educators, counsellors, training institutions, policymakers and community partners into a national community of practice aimed at improving access to career guidance and empowering individuals at every stage of life.

Delivering remarks at the launch, Programme Manager in the Labour Ministry Erika Watson said career planning must be viewed as more than a pathway to employment, noting its impact on personal wellbeing and long-term life satisfaction.

“In Barbados, we recognise that career planning is an essential process. It goes beyond preparing individuals for employment and supports psychological wellbeing, effective career transitions and meaningful participation in the labour market,” Watson said.

She explained that the initiative builds on more than a decade of groundwork by the Ministry, including partnerships with public institutions, schools and training agencies, and represents a major milestone in the country’s human capital development efforts.

The programme also includes interactive career-planning activities, digital tools, and presentations on regional occupational standards, all aimed at equipping practitioners with modern approaches to career guidance and empowering jobseekers to make informed decisions.

Deputy Permanent Secretary Faye Prescod highlighted the importance of career guidance in promoting decent work, equity and human dignity, particularly in a rapidly changing global environment.

“Career guidance is fundamental to decent work. It ensures that individuals are not simply placed into jobs, but are guided toward work that is productive, fulfilling and aligned with their skills and values,” the Permanent Secretary said.

The official noted that the initiative comes at a pivotal time as the world of work continues to evolve due to digital transformation, climate challenges and post-pandemic economic shifts, stressing that career guidance must be integrated throughout the life course — from school to adulthood.

The National Career Guidance Network will be rolled out islandwide through public awareness campaigns, community outreach activities and partnerships with educational and training institutions. Officials say the network is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year, strengthening Barbados’ capacity to prepare its workforce for current and future labour market demands.