This year’s graduates of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) were urged to embark on a mission to fulfil their dreams.
Deputy Director of Education, Marcellus Taylor threw out the challenge when he addressed the 413 students who received Associate of Applied degrees, diplomas and certificates in various fields.
“Potential can be nurtured, but dreams cannot be fulfilled unless you act upon them. Part of your dream is already fulfilled because you have completed BTVI. There are many others who have not fulfilled the dream of enrolling in BTVI. There are still others who languish somewhere, perhaps unhappy and disillusioned by their present circumstance,” he said.
“I am inspired to know that the professionals at BTVI did more than instruct you in the various disciplines. They went to great lengths to prepare you for the world, which awaits you after graduation.”
Mr. Taylor went on to point out that nearly 50 per cent of the graduates have families, are employed full time and attended classes after work. He urged the graduates to transfer the same work ethics applied at BTVI into the workplace.
“This demonstrates your commitment to your personal future and the development of our country,” he said.
The deputy director also told the group that their journey to graduation was achieved through perseverance and tremendous personal sacrifice.
“Perseverance and sacrifice are two keys to persisting in educational pursuits. A lot of people begin but they fall along the wayside. We salute you for preserving and struggling along in some instances, but reaching the finish line,” he said.
Regarding plans in progress to establish an alumni association, Mr. Taylor said “This is one of the best ways that you can show the world that BTVI nurtured your potential and enabled you to fulfil the dream of self-determination.”
He encouraged the graduates to be open and available to participate in alumni activities by sharing experiences, providing testimonials and offering suggestions.
“Go forth and use your knowledge and skills for yourself and the greater good of our nation,” he said.
Some of the successes of the institution over the past school year include 88 job placement referrals, internship opportunities, college seminars, career fairs and site inspections.
The Solar Energy Programme also resumed.
Additionally, 18 people in conjunction with the Bahamian Contractors Association and Inter American Bank completed level one contractor training and certification and five students participated in the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Programme funded by Canadian government.
BTVI offers academic, technical, continuing education, corporate and community training opportunities in various programmes.
It has two campuses, one in Nassau and a satellite campus in Grand Bahama.
