BWU supports initiative to tackle language barriers

Noting that competency in multiple languages has become increasingly important in the modern workforce, the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) has expressed support for initiatives that expose employees to learning new languages.

General Secretary Toni Moore spoke about the benefits of such initiatives during Friday’s launch of an online Spanish programme offered by the Venezuelan Institute for Culture and Cooperation (IVCC).

The BWU has partnered with the IVCC, through their educational arm at the Frank Walcott Labour College, to help expand the opportunity for members and locals.

During her address, Moore said the two-year period of the COVID-19 pandemic served as a time of “reflection and reset”, with the union actively re-examining the direction and priorities which are fit-for-purpose in the modern workforce.

One priority was tackling language barriers that exist in the modern workforce, locally and internationally. “We had determined to reset the union’s education priorities to better reflect and respond to the changes in the world of work and also those changes that are being anticipated in the future of work.

 “Consistent with the BWU’s vision, we welcome this opportunity to explore collective solutions to some of the challenges presented by language barriers. In addition to the opportunity for participants to appreciate another language and culture, it also presents an opportunity for this union to appreciate what we practise every day in the art of negotiations,” Moore said.

The trade union leader stressed that the ability to communicate in various languages will always be an asset in a variety of industries and, as such, the BWU intends to support initiatives in collaboration with supportive entities.

“It also goes without saying, therefore, that competency in Spanish and other languages as an English speaker is an asset for those of us pursuing leadership in regional and international organisations and positions in such areas as tourism, finance, education, nursing, IT, and infrastructure.

 “The Barbados Workers’ Union has always held the perspective that education is not solely the responsibility of the Ministry of Education. It is the responsibility of all actors and all citizens who are interested in enhancing the perspective of another person(s). Strategic alliances with like-minded entities, such as the partnership with the Venezuelan Institute which brings us here today, are therefore useful in assisting our own effort to execute our broader education objective.”

Persons interested in the online Spanish classes are asked to visit the Frank Walcott Labour College website for more information. (SB)