BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis (Press Secretary, PMO) – Prime Minister the Honourable Dr Terrance Drew welcomed Ms Celina Niehoff, the International Affairs Coordinator at the Chamber of Crafts Flensburg, Germany, on a courtesy visit today, Thursday, April 4th, 2024.
Also present at the meeting were Glenroy Blanchette, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, and Dr. Kertney Thompson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council.
Ms. Niehoff’s visit was marked by a significant seminar held at the Advanced Vocational Education Centre and Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (AVEC/CFBC). The seminar illuminated vocational training and further education opportunities available in Germany, along with an exciting announcement regarding an expert exchange program slated to commence in November 2024. This exchange program will bring vocational trainers from Germany to Saint Kitts and Nevis, fostering a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing and skill development.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew remarked, “This initiative marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance vocational education and international cooperation. By partnering with Germany, we open doors to new opportunities for our students and educators, enriching our educational landscape and fostering global connections that will benefit both our nations.”
In a demonstration of commitment to educational advancement, Germany has awarded scholarships to two outstanding students, Rodison Jeffers from Nevis and Dillon Simmonds from Saint Kitts. These scholars have embarked on their journey by beginning online German language classes, enriching their cultural and linguistic understanding in preparation for their educational pursuits.
A pivotal moment in bilateral cooperation was reached during a meeting held at the Ministry of Education on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024. The Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, led discussions and officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation with the Ministry of Education of Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Chamber of Crafts Flensburg.
The meeting was also attended by key senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Lisa Pistana; the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, Glenroy Blanchette; and the CEO of the TVET Council, Dr Kertney Thompson.
Ms. Niehoff expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing cooperation between Saint Kitts and Nevis and Germany, delighted by the positive response from students at both institutions and eagerly anticipates further collaboration.
Mrs. Ama Martin, the Special Envoy for Saint Kitts and Nevis to Germany, played a pivotal role in coordinating this initiative. Her instrumental efforts in organizing educational cooperation initiatives have been paramount to the success of this endeavour.
This significant interaction marks a promising chapter in the bilateral relations between Saint Kitts and Nevis and Germany, fostering opportunities for educational enrichment and professional growth.