The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) has entered into a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with several agencies under the purview of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education and the Ministry of Transport. The signing of the MoU on Friday 18th May, 2012, which was held symbolically at the Caribbean Airlines Hangar, represents a unique collaboration among UTT, Caribbean Airlines Limited, Metal Industries Limited, National Helicopter Services Limited and the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority.
According to Mr. Rabindra Moonan, Chairman of Caribbean Airlines Limited, “this MoU will facilitate the development of a greater cadre of trained personnel for the expanding aviation industry.” UTT’s Chairman of the Board of Governors, Mr. Curtis R. Manchoon, called the MoU, “a true example of collaboration and partnership with brother and sister agencies to move Trinidad and Tobago forward.”
Senator the Honourable Fazal Karim, Minister of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education, challenged nationals to “take your rightful place” in the local aviation industry. He spoke of the untapped employment opportunities which will be available to nationals who seek out the relevant training and experience needed to function competently in this sector. This sentiment was echoed by Senator the Honourable Devant Maharaj, Minister of Transport, who called the signing a, “historic model [that is] laying the foundation for the development of our nationals.”
In September 2012, UTT will offer a four-year Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Aviation Technology, which will encompass the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s Licence (AMEL); an aviation maintenance certification which will empower graduates with the requisite knowledge and training to work in the aviation industry, both nationally and internationally.
