Officials from the Ministry of Labour and the National Training Board yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding with City and Guilds of London, with a view to introducing the training institute's accreditation standards to Bermuda.

Announcing the memorandum, Works Minister David Burch said City and Guilds qualifications will now form part of the National Certification process and be incorporated in to the Bermuda College curriculum.

The move is intended to provide Bermudian tradesmen with qualifications that will make them employable and competitive internationally, the Minister said.

"In an effort to lead Bermudians towards the pathway of career progression and security, the National Training Board has been working closely with key industry partners to identify international standards for vocational qualifications and certifications," said Minister Burch.

"The goal to achieve flexible learning options has been identified with the City and Guilds institute for higher learning."

Ralph Adams, representing City and Guilds at the signing ceremony yesterday, said the agreement would help "establish a world-class national training program".

Founded in 1878, City and Guilds is an examining and accreditation body offering over 500 vocational accreditations in a variety of fields.