NASSAU, Bahamas, July 13, 2024 — Eleven Bahamian students are headed to the world’s largest continent as a result of a recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of The Bahamas and the Confucius Institute.
Ten public school students from throughout the Family Islands and one student from an independent school in New Providence are recipients of this once-in-a-lifetime-opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture as they travel to Nanjing, China, as a part of the China Immersion Programme. The contingent paid a courtesy call on Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna-Martin on July 12, 2024.
While relaying congratulatory remarks to the group, which consisted of valedictorians and salutatorians, Minister Hanna-Martin said that she is filled with “pride and optimism as the group represents the potentiality of The Bahamas”.
She implored the students, all of whom are university bound, to “listen, learn, watch, analyze, and critically access” as they explore China during their two-week stay.
“I am particularly happy that 10 students are from public schools and are predominantly males,” the Minister said. “This is a chance of a lifetime. Let it be an enriching experience.”
Dr. Maria Woodside-Oriakhi, Vice President of Academic Affairs at the University of The Bahamas, was in attendance and noted her team’s excitement to advance opportunities to young Bahamians from throughout the archipelago to participate in immersion to China.
“These young people represent some of the brightest and smartest young people,” Dr. Woodside-Oriakhi said. “They are community leaders in their respective islands. We are grateful for this opportunity for the University of The Bahamas to support the cultural and educational experiences of young Bahamians.”
Also on hand for the occasion were Under Secretary Sonia Culmer; Deputy Permanent Secretary Ricardo Deveaux, and the Hon. Allison Maynard-Gibson, UB Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
