By Belize Live News Staff: The Department of the Environment is investing in the next generation of refrigeration and air conditioning technicians through a scholarship programme that has awarded support to 12 students.
The scholarships are being provided through the National Ozone Unit and are aimed at students pursuing technical training in refrigeration and air conditioning.
Recipients are studying at ITVET institutions in Belize City, Orange Walk and Stann Creek.
Each student will receive tuition support for the 2026 to 2027 academic year along with practical tools and personal protective equipment.
The programme is intended to give trainees the skills needed to work safely while also supporting Belize’s transition away from harmful refrigerant gases.
Refrigeration and air conditioning technicians play an important role in helping Belize manage newer low-emission gases used in homes, businesses and food storage systems.
Three of the scholarship recipients are women, something the Department says helps broaden participation in a traditionally male dominated field.
The awards were presented on World Ozone Day, linking the initiative to Belize’s wider environmental commitments under the Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment.
The Department of the Environment also thanked the participating ITVET centres, the Association of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technicians and the families of the recipients for supporting the programme.
