At least 10 people will be offered up to two year scholarships to attend The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI), courtesy of Sol Petroleum Bahamas Limited and its partners.
The major public-private partnership also includes New Providence Esso dealers and vendors. Sol is the exclusive licensee of Esso branded fuels in The Bahamas.
General Manager of Sol Bahamas, Keith Glinton, said BTVI has a lot to offer and the $1,500 scholarship for each successful applicant will go a long way in expanding their knowledge and skillset.
“BTVI is a national investment and a good educational value that should be supported…with the launch of this program we aim to help Bahamians capitalize on the existing opportunity to become qualified, productive and potentially entrepreneurs through technical and vocational education, particularly at BTVI,” said Mr. Glinton.
On hand to endorse the partnership was Minister of Education, Science and Technology, the Honourable Jerome Fitzgerald, who said the announcement was a clear indication that The Bahamas is in alignment with global education trends. He made reference to the Sustainable Development Goals of which goal number four is to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote life-long learning opportunities for all.”
“Truth be told, technical and vocational careers have become the driving force of many economies and many countries are investing heavily in technical and vocational institutions that are on par with the traditional four-year colleges and universities,” said Minister Fitzgerald.
Minister Fitzgerald noted that his ministry has a renewed commitment to career and technical education and more specifically, BTVI.
“As the minister responsible for BTVI, I am deeply committed to the success of this institution and its ability to empower Bahamians, both young and old, and not just educate, but also create a broader cross-section of skilled entrepreneurs,” stated Minister Fitzgerald.
“As the premier technical and vocational education facility in the country, BTVI continues to provide value to many of our students, exposing them to cutting-edge developments in a world that is technologically-savvy,” he added.
On behalf of BTVI, Acting President, Dr. Iva Dah,l noted her appreciation for Sol and Friends’ substantial investment and the confidence they have reposed in the institution.
“We cannot express our thanks enough for Sol and its partners for helping the youth – and not so young – of our nation. These scholarships will go a long way for those who don’t have the means. What Sol, its dealers and vendors are doing is most appreciated,” said Dr. Dahl.
In addition to the $1,500 scholarships each, while the recipients are being educated at BTVI, they will also be mentored by participating Esso dealers and the Sol vendors. Those mentors and dealers will undergo mentorship training and then meet with recipients at least twice per semester.
Meanwhile, Minister Fitzgerald’s hope is that the success of the program will serve as a catalyst for technical and vocational education throughout The Bahamas.
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI)
Caption:
SOL AND FRIENDS’ SCHOLARSHIP – The Sol and Friends’ scholarship and mentorship program will offer at least 10 successful applicants up to two year scholarships at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI). While at BTVI, recipients will also be mentored by participating Esso dealers and Sol vendors. A few members of the team are shown, including seated in front row from left to right: Sol Bahamas’ General Manager, Keith Glinton; Minister of Education, Science and Technology, the Honourable Jerome Fitzgerald and BTVI’s Acting President, Dr. Iva Dahl.
