Since 2009, the Small Business Association (SBA) of Barbados has been instrumental in training fifth-form students through its schools’ programme, a commendable initiative that has now reached new heights with the introduction of the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in Small Business Entrepreneurship Level 2. This qualification, developed in collaboration with industry partners, was recently rolled out to 75 secondary school students, with 68 successfully completing the programme and earning their certification. This marks a significant milestone in the local education system, as it provides students with a nationally recognised credential in entrepreneurship for the first time.
The NVQ is designed to address the practical demands of running a business in Barbados today. Its eight mandatory units cover essential areas such as retail products and services, small business planning, financial management, business technology, sustainable operations, workplace communication, health and safety, and cultural diversity. For students like Maria, a 17-year-old from Speightstown who sells handmade jewellery online, the NVQ offers a structured pathway to refine her business skills and gain formal recognition for her entrepreneurial efforts.
This initiative is particularly impactful given the dominance of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Barbados’ private sector. Research indicates that MSMEs account for 92.2% of formal enterprises and nearly 48% of private-sector employment. The NVQ bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world business practices, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in the economy. It shifts the narrative from theoretical knowledge to demonstrated competency, empowering students to confidently pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Barbados’ approach stands out regionally. While countries like Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago offer vocational qualifications in entrepreneurship, these are typically targeted at post-secondary or adult learners. The Barbados NVQ, however, engages secondary school students directly, fostering entrepreneurial thinking at an early age. This early intervention model positions Barbados as a regional leader in youth-focused entrepreneurship education.
The NVQ is more than just a credential; it is a launch pad for the next generation of business leaders. It equips students with tangible skills, real-world relevance, and regional mobility, enabling them to create businesses, drive innovation, and build prosperous futures. For policymakers and business partners, the NVQ is a call to action to provide the necessary resources, investment, mentorship, and opportunities to support these young entrepreneurs. This initiative underscores Barbados’ commitment to youth, innovation, and economic growth.