LORNA Napier has been appointed principal of the Media Technology Institute (MTI), a division of the Creative Production and Training Centre (CPTC).

Her appointment, which was announced by the Board of Governors of MTI, became effective on June 1.

A tertiary level training facility, the MTI was officially launched in October last year as the successor institution to the CPTC’s training department.

The institute offers modular programmes in various media-related disciplines, such as voice and speech communication, digital design and multi-media production and videography.

Successful completion of these courses leads to the award of certificates or diplomas, depending on the course of study, and are geared towards-practising media specialists, people with an interest in careers in media and communication as well as people seeking to develop new skills.

In her capacity as principal, Napier is expected to lead the accreditation process with the University Council of Jamaica, thus enabling the institute to advance to degree-granting status. She is also expected to plan and execute the necessary strategies, which will bring the programmes closer to more and more of its target audience.

Napier brings to the position a wealth of experience as a trainer and communication specialist, having served the CPTC over the past 18 years in various capacities, the most recent being director of training.

With emphasis on the technology behind the media, the institute seeks to develop technically competent professionals to complement theoretical media skills. All MTI courses are currently certified by the National Council on Technical Vocational Education and Training (NCTVET).