About
The HEART/NSTA Trust, officially known as the Human Employment and Resource Training Trust/National Service Training Agency, is Jamaica's premier human development agency specializing in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). Established in 1982, the Trust has a rich history spanning over four decades, during which it has become the largest provider of vocational training in the English-speaking Caribbean. Its foundational mission is to facilitate and ensure the development of human capital to build a globally competitive workforce that significantly contributes to national growth and socio-economic development. The Trust was created to address the critical need for skilled labor in Jamaica, equipping individuals with practical, competency-based training that enables seamless transition into the workforce. Over the years, HEART/NSTA Trust has expanded its mandate beyond traditional vocational training to include initiatives such as volunteerism, mentorship, adult literacy, and digital transformation strategies aimed at modernizing education and workforce development. The Trust operates numerous specialized training institutions across Jamaica, including academies focused on construction, hospitality, apparel, and other key sectors. It has trained over 613,000 individuals and certified more than 254,000 professionals, who now serve in various industries locally and internationally. The Trust’s unique value proposition lies in its comprehensive approach to human capital development, combining skills training, certification, and work experience programs such as the Summer Employment Programme, which provides youth with structured work placements to enhance employability. Its 'Digital First' initiative exemplifies its commitment to innovation, leveraging technology to keep pace with Industry 4.0 trends like automation and artificial intelligence, thereby preparing Jamaicans for the future workforce. The HEART/NSTA Trust is distinguished by its resilience and adaptability, having successfully navigated challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to expand its reach and impact. Its collaborative partnerships with local and international stakeholders further strengthen its capacity to deliver value-added training and employment opportunities. The Trust’s vision of a globally competitive workforce and its mission to build human capital through practical, inclusive, and forward-thinking programs set it apart as a cornerstone institution in Jamaica’s educational and economic landscape.
