The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently graduated 29 Berry Islanders from its general maintenance course.
The 16-week course included fundamentals of carpentry, plumbing, tiling and electrical installation. The course offered each Friday evening and Saturday, spanned a 10-hour period per weekend. The graduates included R. N. Gomez All Age School students as well as adults.
BTVI Academic Dean Pleshette McPhee told the graduates at the ceremony held at St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church in Bullock's Harbour, Berry Islands that, with global competitiveness, higher education was becoming increasingly critical.
"Through tertiary education, individuals are armed with a multitude of skills relevant for improving their lives within a society. As critical thinkers, entrepreneurs, innovators and engineers, educated citizens share the responsibility to be catalysts for change," said McPhee.
R. N. Gomez Principal Brian Williams also encouraged the graduates. "Crime is out of control, but you are moving in the right direction. Our future is bright. Our future is secured," he said.
School Deputy Head Boy Pharon Winder, who hopes to join the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, recognized the significance of the course and how it would factor into his future.
"It was needed. I will need some of these skills on the defense force and even on a daily basis," said the 16-year-old. "This can take me far. I can show others what I have learned and build on my experience," he said.
Janette Taylor, 49, said the skills she learned would serve her well.
"I have a building I am opening and can hook up lights, do some plumbing and some carpentry. I'm so excited. It was very helpful and it made me feel young," she said.
The Berry Islands Homeowners Association and members of the community also played an integral role in helping the participants.
President of the Berry Island Homeowners Association William Kalis expressed his continued support of such initiatives sponsored by the association. He reminded the graduates that they are an important part of the world economy.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were BTVI Dean of Construction Trades Alexander Darville, BTVI Chief Councilor Cardinal Rolle and Michelle Bowleg, education district superintendent.
BTVI previously conducted the same course in Harbour Island, Cat Island, Andros and Exuma.

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