KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Rhoda Moy Crawford, has departed Jamaica for Tianjin, China, where she will represent the country at the 2026 World Vocational and Technical Education Development Conference (WVTEDC).

The international conference will bring together global leaders, policymakers and education experts to explore advancements in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), with a focus on strengthening skills development and international cooperation.

Crawford, who is also the Member of Parliament for Manchester Central, described Jamaica’s participation as an important opportunity to strengthen the country’s technical education framework and equip young people with skills relevant to an evolving global workforce.

“This invitation offers a vital opportunity for our nation to engage with global leaders and experts in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). By participating in discussions on global standards and sharing our own national practices, we are positioning Jamaica to better align our education sector with international benchmarks,” she told Observer Online.

She further emphasised that the visit represents a strategic investment in Jamaica’s human capital, with the potential to foster international partnerships and enhance training opportunities for young people.

“This trip is a strategic investment in our human capital. The knowledge gained and the potential for international cooperation will be instrumental in strengthening our TVET frameworks, ultimately empowering our youth with the high-level, future-oriented skills needed to drive Jamaica’s sustainable development and economic growth,” Crawford said.

Her participation comes shortly after Jamaica’s impressive showing at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, where Brandon Brown secured a historic gold medal in optoelectronics technology, while Omar Cockett earned the Best of Nation medal.

READ: HEART/NSTA Trust celebrates Brandon Brown’s historic WorldSkills gold in optoelectronics technology

Crawford said the achievements underscore the country’s growing potential in technical and vocational education and highlight the importance of continued investment in skills training.

“Jamaica’s participation is especially significant following [their] achievement a few weeks ago. Their successes are proud reminders of the talent and potential of our young people, and of the value of strong technical and vocational education,” she said.

“At the conference, we will share Jamaica’s experience and explore partnerships and best practices that can help more students gain industry-relevant skills and succeed on the world stage,” Crawford added.

The state minister is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Sunday, October 18.