ABOUT CCLCS
Vision To be the leading Caribbean tertiary institution in the advancement of social justice through accessible, world class competency-based education, lifelong learning and evidence-based knowledge products.
Mission To produce highly competent global citizens with the skills to promote social justice across all spheres of influence.
Values Social and Economic Justice, Accessible Education Opportunities, Lifelong Learning, Rigorous Quality, Integrity, Transparency, Decent Work, Community, Mutual Respect, Innovation
Objectives
1.0 Excellence in Teaching, Lifelong Learning and Research
2.0 Contribution to National Development
3.0 Improved Capacity to Attract Students
4.0 Improved Financial Resilience
5.0 Increased Capacity to Meet Stakeholder Expectations
6.0 Institutional Excellence
📜 Our Rich History & Heritage
Established in 1966, the Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies (CCLCS) was founded as a dedicated center for trade union training and worker education. The college was born out of a profound necessity to address the educational needs of the working class and empower trade unions with the critical skills required to navigate industrial relations and collective bargaining.
The institution is proudly named in honor of Captain Arthur Andrew Cipriani (1875–1945), one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most influential early labor leaders and a fierce champion of workers’ rights, self-governance, and political representation. Formally opening its doors on October 19, 1966, the college originally offered a two-year Diploma in Labour Studies in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
In 1972, the legal framework of the college was formalized via the Cipriani Labour College Act No. 4, officially designating it as a body corporate. Recognizing the evolving needs of the national and regional economy, the curriculum expanded in the same year to incorporate co-operative education. Over the subsequent decades, CCLCS expanded its reach beyond its main Valsayn Campus, establishing satellite operations in Tobago and San Fernando, continually diversifying its academic catalog to encompass Occupational Safety and Health, Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Emergency Management.
To achieve our mission of promoting social justice across all spheres of influence, we focus on four essential pillars that support a fair and equitable society:
Human Rights: The fundamental recognition of the inherent dignity of every individual. This includes the right to education, the right to organize, and the right to “Decent Work.”
Access: The removal of barriers—financial, social, or physical—that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. Without access, opportunity remains a privilege rather than a right.
Participation: The principle that people must have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. This is the heart of workplace democracy and community empowerment.
Equity: The recognition that individuals start from different places and require different resources to achieve the same outcome. It is the active practice of fairness to ensure a level playing field for all.
Leadership & Governance
At the heart of CCLCS is a dedicated administrative and academic leadership team committed to fulfilling our social justice mission. Under the guidance of our Board of Governors and the Office of the Director, the College ensures transparent operation, continuous institutional improvement, and a supportive learning environment for all.
Quick Contacts & Campus Directories
