WorldSkills Barbados Junior Future Skills Camp Launched

Barbados’ push to prepare young people for an increasingly digital and technology-driven workforce took centre stage on Wednesday with the launch of the sixth annual WorldSkills Barbados Junior Future Skills Camp at the TVET Council in Hastings, Christ Church.

Officials said the programme, which targets students aged 10 to 16, was designed to expose participants to emerging industries while building practical and interpersonal skills needed in the modern workplace.

Speaking at the launch, TVET Council Executive Director Henderson Eastmond said the camp had continued to evolve since its introduction during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 to reflect “global industry demand” and place students “at the forefront of innovation”.

This year’s programme includes training in cybersecurity, mobile app development, advanced electronics, aerial robotics and 3D printing through collaborations with regional and local partners.

Eastmond said the camp was attracting growing interest from students eager for more hands-on learning opportunities, noting that participants not only developed technical competencies but also strengthened communication, teamwork and confidence.

“By engaging in practical skills-based activities, students begin to see themselves as capable, creative, and future ready,” he said, adding that many students left the programme with a stronger interest in entrepreneurship and applying their new skills in future careers.