Education

SJPI & PCW Launch Satellite Training Programme

The Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) and the Pinelands Creative Workshop (PCW) have launched a satellite training programme

In his opening remarks at the launch, in the Media Resource Centre at the SJPI, yesterday, Principal of SJPI, Ian Drakes, expressed pleasure about the collaboration with PCW.

“This is an exciting time, and this has been long in coming, as the SJPI extends now the community reach of our responsibility, as the premier technical vocational educational institution in Barbados,” he said.

Mr. Drakes noted that participants would be taught by premier instructors of the SJPI. He added that at the end of their training, they would not just gain a certificate of participation but also the recognition of a quality SJPI certification.

“We have to throw away the box and just reimagine, and this is all part of the transformation…and so SJPI has put their hand up and said we are ready,” he stated.

Chief Executive Officer of the PCW, Sophia Greaves, concurred with Mr. Drakes and pointed out that the satellite programme is intentional. “Now this programme speaks to inclusive development to proactively address exclusion, [and is] for promoting inclusion,” she said.

Ms. Greaves also referred to the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between SJPI and PCW, which was signed last December, and stated that both parties ensured that the agreement was not just a “file that sat on the shelf and caught dust, but one that went into action almost immediately”.

She added that after the signing of the MOU, the satellite programme cements the continuity of what both organisations believe in and want to do for the respective locations, and facilitates inclusive development in communities.

Ms. Greaves also explained that the satellite programme is a full-time programme, which is designed for those who have been educationally excluded and need to retool themselves, those who are unemployed or underemployed, those who are the head of their households and are seeking upward mobility, school leavers, new entrants to the job market, and those who do not have the financial space to invest in continuing education.

The Haynesville community in St. James will be the pilot for the satellite training programme. (PR/GIS)

Caption: From left to right – Deputy Prime Minister, Santia Bradshaw; Principal of the Samuel Jackman Institute of Technology, Ian Drakes; Chief Executive Officer of Pinelands Creative Workshop, Sophia Greaves; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Sandra Husbands, in discussion at the launch of the satellite training programme yesterday

Education

Three Schools Honoured For Championing Health Initiatives

Three schools have been recognised for their efforts in promoting healthy lifestyles through the implementation of the Barbados School Nutrition Policy (BSNP).

George Lamming Primary, St. Giles Primary, and The Rock Christian School were honoured by the BSNP Implementation Committee during a special ceremony on Wednesday at the George Lamming Primary School, in Welches, St. Michael.

The overall winner, George Lamming Primary, and the two other schools, each received $4,000 in vouchers to support their health-focused initiatives.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, commended the schools for their leadership, highlighting the significance of turning policy into action.

“This is one of those moments where we must reward, appreciate, and acknowledge progress…. We are moving in the right direction. It’s one thing for policymakers to develop ideas on paper, but it’s in moments like these that we see policy come alive and truly transform lives…. You’re proving that good health begins with each of us,” Mr. Ishmael said.

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, also praised the students and school communities for their dedication.

“Winning isn’t just about trophies or prizes, it’s about the teamwork, the creativity, and the commitment you’ve shown in reshaping your school environment. Your participation sets an example that will inspire not just your classmates, but your families and communities to live healthier lives. This is just the beginning of your journey – keep making smart, healthy choices,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated.

The event was also attended by PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, other officials and stakeholders involved in the policy’s rollout, principals, teachers, and students.

The BSNP Committee applauded the schools for fostering healthier environments, underscoring the importance of early intervention in addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases. The initiative forms part of a national effort to promote wellness and improve long-term health outcomes for Barbadian youth. (PR/GIS)

Caption: Minister of State in Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael; Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw; PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Reigo, as well as officials and stakeholders involved in the School Nutrition Policy, pose with students and principals of the George Lamming Primary; St. Giles Primary; and The Rock Christian School, at the ceremony

Education

Immigration Webinar For Students Wishing To Study In Canada

Barbadians interested in pursuing studies in Canada are invited to participate in the online Immigration Seminar of the Consulate General of Barbados, in Toronto.

The Consulate, as part of its annual activities to observe National Heroes Day, is hosting a week of activities, and the key event will be the Immigration Seminar tomorrow Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 p.m.

Over the past 12 months, there have been significant changes to the requirements and processes for obtaining an international student visa. As a result, the seminar will focus on the recent changes to the entry requirements for international students coming to Canada to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Prospective students, as well as parents, guardians, guidance counsellors, school teachers and principals, who have a vested interest in obtaining the most up-to-date and accurate information to make the most informed choice from the available study options, are encouraged to participate in the online seminar.

Alana Alleyne, a barrister and solicitor, will cover areas such as the latest changes to international student visas, eligibility criteria for student visas, requirements for postgraduate work permits, and changes to eligibility for spousal work permits. (PR/GIS)

Education

Information Session For Teachers Keen On Working In USA

Primary school teachers interested in working in the United States of America (USA) are invited to an upcoming Information Session, tomorrow Thursday, April 24.

The session will be hosted in the Main Conference Room of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The initiative is being facilitated by the Ministry, in partnership with the Barbados Employment and Career Counselling Service, the Barbados Union of Teachers, and Participate Learning, a USA recruitment firm.

During the event, Participate Learning will share important information on the application and recruitment processes, as well as on working in the USA. (PR/GIS)