Angostura® collaborated with TSL Foundation to construct a Steelpan Manufacturing Facility at the Russell Latapy Secondary School in Morvant. The Facility, which was officially opened on May 14, will allow the school to offer its students Steelpan Manufacturing as a Caribbean Vocational Qualification subject. It marks a significant milestone in the advancement of vocational education and cultural heritage in Trinidad and Tobago.
This latest corporate social responsibility initiative is evidence of Angostura’s commitment to investing in education and youth development in our fenceline community of Laventille/Morvant. It also emphasises the Company’s support for local culture, particularly in the area of steelpan and the Ministry of Education’s Adopt a School programme.
The Russell Latapy Secondary School is now one of nine schools in the country with a Steelpan Manufacturing Facility and the first of its kind in the community of Laventille/Morvant with a space dedicated to the art and craftsmanship of steelpan manufacturing as part of the curriculum.
Angostura’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Ian Forbes said, “Investing in the construction of a Steelpan Manufacturing Facility at the Russell Latapy Secondary School provides the option for students to excel in school through vocational subjects. Students who successfully complete the programme have the opportunity to obtain the necessary skills and training to gain employment regionally within the steelpan manufacturing industry. This is the impact that we want to create in society.”
The partnership with the TSL Foundation opens a world of possibilities for students, enabling a more educated workforce and empowering our young people to cultivate their knowledge, positive values and attitudes. The steelpan is more than just part of the carnival festivities, it is a global business from steelpan manufacturing to export opportunities.
Chair of TSL Foundation, Mrs. Nicole Galt said, “Without the very generous financial assistance from our Flagship Sponsor, Angostura®, the construction of the Facility which began in December 2023 would not have been possible.”
Speaking at the opening of the Facility, Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly who commended Angostura® for stepping up very early in her Ministry’s Adopt a School programme said, “I want to thank Angostura® for being a pioneer in the education philanthropy field.”
Angostura® would like to thank the TSL Foundation and Russell Latapy Secondary School for the opportunity to partner with them on this exciting venture and we wish the students who will be using the Facility great success.