NCTI and NTRC Fibre Optics Training Programme
The SVG National Centre of Technological Innovation (NCTI) and National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) have successfully concluded their first Fibre Optics Technician – Outside Plant training programme, equipping 23 participants with knowledge and practical skills in fibre optic technology.
The programme commenced on Monday, September 14, 2026, and concluded on Friday, October 23, 2026. It consisted of four weeks of online instruction, followed by a final week of face-to-face practical training at the NCTI office in Kingstown. This blended approach allowed participants to develop their theoretical understanding while gaining hands-on experience with fibre optic equipment and techniques.
The training was facilitated by three instructors from General Communications & Networking Services (GCNS), a company based in Trinidad and Tobago: Mr. Anselm Barrett, Ms. Chrystal Shepherd, and Mr. Paul Dominique. Their expertise and guidance supported participants in developing their knowledge and practical skills in fibre optics technology, with an emphasis on competencies relevant to the telecommunications industry.
The 23 participants represented a diverse group, including individuals attending on behalf of their respective organisations and those pursuing the training for personal and professional development. Four students from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) also participated through scholarships awarded to them by the NTRC to attend the programme. This opportunity provided the students with access to specialised training and an internationally recognised certificate from Electronics Technicians Association, International, Inc. This certificate will allow participants to work locally and internationally with any organization of their choice and can contribute to their future career development.
Fibre optic technology plays a vital role in modern telecommunications infrastructure, supporting high-speed internet connectivity and reliable data transmission. As demand for digital connectivity continues to grow, developing local expertise in this specialised field is important to strengthening the technical workforce and supporting the country’s digital transformation.
Through this programme, NCTI and NTRC continue to demonstrate their commitment to expanding access to technology-focused training and creating opportunities for individuals to acquire industry-relevant skills. As highlighted by the director of the NTRC, Mr. Apollo Knights, the participation of the four SVGCC scholarship recipients further highlights the importance of providing students with opportunities to develop specialised technical competencies.
The successful completion of the programme represents another step in NCTI’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with different institutions and organisations to bring the necessary skills to our shores and to build technical capacity and prepare individuals to contribute to the evolving information and communications technology sector in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The CEO of NCTI, Mr. Petrus Gumbs, stated that this is just the beginning of a committed partnership among NCTI, NTRC and GCNS to make certain that quality training is made available to the entire Vincentian population as well as neighbouring countries so that our countries can be more resilient and self-sufficient in this technological age.
