In keeping with its mandate to improve the export readiness and competitiveness of local fashion enterprises, the Jamaica Fashion and Apparel Cluster (JFAC) recently partnered with the University of Philadelphia in a two-day training workshop.

The workshop sought to assist stakeholders with the development of Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) programmes for their companies. Participants learnt how to integrate methods of increasing the standards of garment quality, decreasing the percentage of inferior products, and streamlining their operations. Participants were also trained in areas such as quality improvement testing protocols and labelling regulations.

The workshop was conducted by Nioka Wyatt, assistant professor in the School of Engineering and Textiles at Philadelphia University. She has worked in the apparel industry for over 10 years in areas of quality, merchandising and business.

Professor Wyatt stressed the importance of maintaining quality during different phases of pre-production and production.

HANDS-ON

The first day of the seminar consisted of lectures and small group activities while the second day involved hands-on techniques and a visit to a manufacturer to review current manufacturing processes.

The target group included fashion department instructors of the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), University of Technology, University of the West Indies, HEART Trust/NTA, Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts, Annie Gee's Fashion Institute, Ka-Ju Dressmaking and Fashion Institute and several members of the Fashion and Apparel Cluster.