NASSAU, Bahamas — A Bahamas government mission to Canada led by Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper and former Minister of State for Education Zane Lightbourne has led to the signing of a letter of Intent between Algonquin College and the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) on Monday that is expected to establish cooperation programs between the schools, according to a statement, The Nassau Guardian reported on Wednesday, September 20, 2023.
The statement explained that the relationship will include the development of short-term, reciprocal faculty, staff, and student exchanges through the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) program.
“The agreement signed today between Algonquin College and BTVI will offer expanded opportunities for our learners, faculty and employees to collaborate with internationally recognized applied training institutions,” said Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brulé.
The statement added that the relationship will also help to develop and maintain collaborative efforts on applied research.
The letter of intent proposes a five-year partnership that will provide international educational opportunities for students of both schools
“We look forward to building on our shared knowledge to further innovation and education capabilities between our two institutions,” said Brulé.
BTVI Interim President Linda Davis said that Algonquin College is now part of BTVI’s growing list of partnerships with colleges and universities.
“This letter of intent symbolizes the beginning of what we expect to be a mutually beneficial relationship for our students, employees and faculty,” said Davis.
“It is these relationships which create pathways for student exchanges, and professional development for staff and faculty.
“International, cross- cultural exposure at other institutions of higher learning deepens experiences and allows for the addition of skills.”
The statement adds: “BTVI provides career training, which equips its graduates to be workforce ready.
“The institution offers over 40 industry-certified diploma and certificate courses, in addition to associate of applied science degrees at campuses in New Providence and Grand Bahama and at several locations throughout the Family Islands – several of which are poised to become full instructional sites in the coming months.”
