New Category : Education

University of The Bahamas Submits National and International Accreditation Applications

Fri, Nov 22nd 2024, 01:28 PM

University of The Bahamas (UB) has submitted its applications for accreditation candidacy to the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of TheBahamas (NAECOB) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This development marks a critical step in the institution’s pursuit of excellence, accountability, and the highest standards of academic and operational performance.

The achievement is the result of concerted efforts by UB’s faculty, staff, students, and senior administrators, under the leadership of Acting President Janyne Hodder. This accomplishment was further strengthened by the expertise of Advisor to the Board, Dr.Sidney McPhee, President of Middle Tennessee State University, whose leadership through numerous successful SACSCOC reaffirmations has been invaluable, along withthe support of Dr. Cheryl Cardell, a former SACSCOC assessor.

This milestone reflects the resilience and determination of the university community as itapproaches its 51st year of operation. Despite significant challenges, UB has madesubstantial progress, including the completion of outstanding audits dating back to2012 and the advancement of preparations for the 2024 audit. Accountability andtransparency will be strengthened with the completion and publication of the requisitepolicies, accessible on the UB website.

Physical upgrades have complemented institutional improvements. At the Oakes FieldCampus in Nassau, infrastructure enhancements have enriched the educational andresearch environment. In Grand Bahama, the completion of phase one renovations at UBNorth, funded by a donor, has restored a university campus experience for students forthe first time since Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

This accomplishment demonstrates UB’s commitment to building a foundation forsustainable growth and operational excellence. The submission of the accreditationapplications symbolises the university’s readiness to embrace new opportunities fordevelopment, innovation, academic excellence and service.

As we celebrate this achievement, we recommit ourselves to the rigorous requirementsand continuous improvements that will ultimately secure both national and internationalaccreditation approvals.

University of The Bahamas extends its gratitude to stakeholders, supporters, and thebroader community for their continued support, which has been instrumental in helpingthe institution reach this significant point in its development.

University of The Bahamas (UB) has submitted its applications for accreditation candidacy to the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NAECOB) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This development marks a critical step in the institution’s pursuit of excellence, accountability, and the highest standards of academic and operational performance. The achievement is the result of concerted efforts by UB’s faculty, staff, students, and senior administrators, under the leadership of Acting President Janyne Hodder. This accomplishment was further strengthened by the expertise of Advisor to the Board, Dr. Sidney McPhee, President of Middle Tennessee State University, whose leadership through numerous successful SACSCOC reaffirmations has been invaluable, along with the support of Dr. Cheryl Cardell, a former SACSCOC assessor. This milestone reflects the resilience and determination of the university community as it approaches its 51st year of operation. Despite significant challenges, UB has made substantial progress, including the completion of outstanding audits dating back to 2012 and the advancement of preparations for the 2024 audit. Accountability and transparency will be strengthened with the completion and publication of the requisite policies, accessible on the UB website. Physical upgrades have complemented institutional improvements. At the Oakes Field Campus in Nassau, infrastructure enhancements have enriched the educational and research environment. In Grand Bahama, the completion of phase one renovations at UB North, funded by a donor, has restored a university campus experience for students for the first time since Hurricane Dorian in 2019. This accomplishment demonstrates UB’s commitment to building a foundation for sustainable growth and operational excellence. The submission of the accreditation applications symbolises the university’s readiness to embrace new opportunities for development, innovation, academic excellence and service. As we celebrate this achievement, we recommit ourselves to the rigorous requirements and continuous improvements that will ultimately secure both national and international accreditation approvals. University of The Bahamas extends its gratitude to stakeholders, supporters, and the broader community for their continued support, which has been instrumental in helping the institution reach this significant point in its development.

UB hosts its Fall 2024 Honours Convocation

Mon, Nov 18th 2024, 12:54 PM

Today, November 15, 2024, the University of The Bahamas hosted its Fall 2024 Honours Convocation, celebrating the academic achievements of its highest-performing students. The ceremony, held at the Performing Arts Centre on the campus of the University of The Bahamas, Oakes Field, underscored the institution's commitment to excellence and leadership.

The Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal, was one of the keynote speakers at the event.  Reflecting on perseverance, the transformative power of education, and the importance of serving the nation, he shared insights drawn from his own experiences.  An alumnus and awardee of the University of The Bahamas in 1995, Minister Keith Bell spoke about how his time at the institution shaped his career, influencing critical policy decisions in housing and wage reforms.

In his remarks, Minister Bell also honoured the university's rich legacy, which spans over five decades, and paid tribute to pioneers such as the late Sir Lynden Pindling and Dr. Keva Bethel, who played key roles in the institution's growth.  He encouraged the honourees to use their achievements as a foundation for nation-building, urging them to continue striving for personal and professional growth.

“You are the future of The Bahamas,” Minister Bell said. “Your academic success is not just a personal milestone, but a vital contribution to our collective progress as a nation.”

The Fall 2024 Honours Convocation highlighted the University of The Bahamas' role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead across various sectors. The event served as both a celebration of excellence and a reaffirmation of the university's mission to build a brighter future for The Bahamas.    

Among the high achievers was Director General of Bahamas Information Services, Mr. Elcott Coleby, who attained Honour Roll and President's List.  He commented that he was gratified "at reaping some of the fruits of my labour.  I am humbled and thankful to God."

Today, November 15, 2024, the University of The Bahamas hosted its Fall 2024 Honours Convocation, celebrating the academic achievements of its highest-performing students. The ceremony, held at the Performing Arts Centre on the campus of the University of The Bahamas, Oakes Field, underscored the institution's commitment to excellence and leadership. The Hon. Keith Bell, Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal, was one of the keynote speakers at the event.  Reflecting on perseverance, the transformative power of education, and the importance of serving the nation, he shared insights drawn from his own experiences.  An alumnus and awardee of the University of The Bahamas in 1995, Minister Keith Bell spoke about how his time at the institution shaped his career, influencing critical policy decisions in housing and wage reforms. In his remarks, Minister Bell also honoured the university's rich legacy, which spans over five decades, and paid tribute to pioneers such as the late Sir Lynden Pindling and Dr. Keva Bethel, who played key roles in the institution's growth.  He encouraged the honourees to use their achievements as a foundation for nation-building, urging them to continue striving for personal and professional growth. “You are the future of The Bahamas,” Minister Bell said. “Your academic success is not just a personal milestone, but a vital contribution to our collective progress as a nation.” The Fall 2024 Honours Convocation highlighted the University of The Bahamas' role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead across various sectors. The event served as both a celebration of excellence and a reaffirmation of the university's mission to build a brighter future for The Bahamas.     Among the high achievers was Director General of Bahamas Information Services, Mr. Elcott Coleby, who attained Honour Roll and President's List.  He commented that he was gratified "at reaping some of the fruits of my labour.  I am humbled and thankful to God."

2024 Local Government Junior Councillors Sworn In

Wed, Nov 13th 2024, 03:34 PM

A new term for the Local Government Junior Council Programme is off to a promising start on Grand Bahama Island with the swearing-in of the newly-elected councillors Tuesday, November 12th, 2024. 

The student councillors, representing various schools throughout the island - namely Eight Mile Rock High School, Jack Hayward Senior and Junior High Schools, St. Georges High School, Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Academy, Grand Bahama Academy of Seventh Day Adventists, Sunland Baptist Academy, and Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School – were elected to serve on October 17, 2024. Their swearing-in makes it official and now allows them to assume their roles as Local Government officials.

The Local Government Junior Council Programme, relaunched in 2023, was established to help students understand the workings of government and the Bahamian electoral process by involving them in local governance and empowering them to take active roles in their communities. 

Students in the programme participate in community projects like beach cleanups and food pantries. At the close of the term, the councillors are judged on their performance and the impact they made through their chosen community project to claim the title of ‘Best Local Government Junior Council.'  Last term’s exercise saw two Grand Bahama schools place first and third overall – Eight Mile Rock High School and Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School, respectively.

The 2024 swearing-in exercise at Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School featured an inspiring message by former St. Georges Junior Council Treasurer Draya Blooms. “To all of you, remember that you are leaders and not followers,” she advised, adding, “It doesn’t matter what the student body looks like – you look different, you be different. You set the examples and you pave the way. Today you might not understand what is exactly in your hands, but tomorrow, when you find yourself fighting for causes you’re passionate about, don’t be afraid to use your voice to speak up on those matters because it does matter and wherever your journey leads you, it doesn’t mean that this was in vain. It means that you have a voice, you speak up, and you represent the larger body that didn’t have the courage to stand in your position today.”

These swearing-in ceremonies of the newly elected Junior Councillors mark the beginning of an exciting journey for these young leaders as they step into roles that will not only shape their communities but also help them grow and make a lasting impact.

A new term for the Local Government Junior Council Programme is off to a promising start on Grand Bahama Island with the swearing-in of the newly-elected councillors Tuesday, November 12th, 2024.  The student councillors, representing various schools throughout the island - namely Eight Mile Rock High School, Jack Hayward Senior and Junior High Schools, St. Georges High School, Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Academy, Grand Bahama Academy of Seventh Day Adventists, Sunland Baptist Academy, and Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School – were elected to serve on October 17, 2024. Their swearing-in makes it official and now allows them to assume their roles as Local Government officials. The Local Government Junior Council Programme, relaunched in 2023, was established to help students understand the workings of government and the Bahamian electoral process by involving them in local governance and empowering them to take active roles in their communities.  Students in the programme participate in community projects like beach cleanups and food pantries. At the close of the term, the councillors are judged on their performance and the impact they made through their chosen community project to claim the title of ‘Best Local Government Junior Council.'  Last term’s exercise saw two Grand Bahama schools place first and third overall – Eight Mile Rock High School and Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School, respectively. The 2024 swearing-in exercise at Sister Mary Patricia Junior High School featured an inspiring message by former St. Georges Junior Council Treasurer Draya Blooms. “To all of you, remember that you are leaders and not followers,” she advised, adding, “It doesn’t matter what the student body looks like – you look different, you be different. You set the examples and you pave the way. Today you might not understand what is exactly in your hands, but tomorrow, when you find yourself fighting for causes you’re passionate about, don’t be afraid to use your voice to speak up on those matters because it does matter and wherever your journey leads you, it doesn’t mean that this was in vain. It means that you have a voice, you speak up, and you represent the larger body that didn’t have the courage to stand in your position today.” These swearing-in ceremonies of the newly elected Junior Councillors mark the beginning of an exciting journey for these young leaders as they step into roles that will not only shape their communities but also help them grow and make a lasting impact.

Minister Moxey points the way for graduating students to be a part of Grand Bahama's growth and development

Fri, Nov 1st 2024, 11:24 AM

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey says Grand Bahama is “on the move”; and with so many projects already in the works and many others expected to come on stream soon, it presents an ideal opportunity for graduating students to be a part of the growth and development.

Addressing high school students who flooded the Grand Lucayan Resort Ballroom for the one-day Innovate Grand Bahama High School Career Fair on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Minister Moxey said the third annual Career Fair comes at a time when so many new businesses and job opportunities are being created on Grand Bahama.

This year’s Career Fair, which attracted senior students from all high schools on the island, had 40 companies and businesses participating.  An increase in participation from last year.

“There are over $2 Billion of investments happening right now on Grand Bahama Island, with Celebration Key, Royal Caribbean, ITM/MSC Cruise Port terminal, the Hospital Redevelopment and more,” Minister Moxey told the students.
 “This means that there are going to be so many different career opportunities.  So, this Career Fair is so important to ensure that you recognize what’s available on GB Island."

The minister pointed out that it has been established that Grand Bahama is the home of maritime and logistics and that it is the industrial capital of The Bahamas. There is a push, she added, to also become known as the home of events, entertainment and innovation.

As the Cabinet Chair of an initiative called 'Innovate 242,' designed to establish The Bahamas as the center of innovation in the Caribbean, Minister Moxey revealed that through that initiative the Ministry for Grand Bahama will develop a Business Incubator at the former Royal Palm Resort.

Within the Incubator will be a Creative Business Center, which will assist potential entrepreneurs in creative businesses and other endeavours.  The Creative Business Center will help budding entrepreneurs take their business ideas from concept to launch, and will assist with all the resources needed to get their businesses going.

“This incubator will also house our 'Center for Sustainability,'” explained Minister Moxey. “This is where we hope that international organizations and others can come together for research and development on creative ways to assist with climate change, resiliency, adaptation and mitigation.  As we know, Grand Bahama is the home of resiliency because we’ve weathered many storms.

“So, through this Career Fair, we believe that all sorts of opportunities will be made available. You will be able to touch and feel and speak to some professionals who are here in that space.  Perhaps it will cause you to want to venture into those areas of expertise.”

Minister Moxey reminded the senior students that the sky was the limit for them and Grand Bahama has so much to offer to help them reach their goals, live their dreams.

Students were given a 'Career Fair Passport,' which contained the logo and name of every company participating in the Career Fair.  As students visited each company, they would have their 'passport' stamped or signed by a company representative: it was designed to encourage students to visit all the booths at the Career Fair, allowing them to explore all of the career opportunities available.

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey says Grand Bahama is “on the move”; and with so many projects already in the works and many others expected to come on stream soon, it presents an ideal opportunity for graduating students to be a part of the growth and development. Addressing high school students who flooded the Grand Lucayan Resort Ballroom for the one-day Innovate Grand Bahama High School Career Fair on Thursday, October 31, 2024, Minister Moxey said the third annual Career Fair comes at a time when so many new businesses and job opportunities are being created on Grand Bahama. This year’s Career Fair, which attracted senior students from all high schools on the island, had 40 companies and businesses participating.  An increase in participation from last year. “There are over $2 Billion of investments happening right now on Grand Bahama Island, with Celebration Key, Royal Caribbean, ITM/MSC Cruise Port terminal, the Hospital Redevelopment and more,” Minister Moxey told the students.   “This means that there are going to be so many different career opportunities.  So, this Career Fair is so important to ensure that you recognize what’s available on GB Island." The minister pointed out that it has been established that Grand Bahama is the home of maritime and logistics and that it is the industrial capital of The Bahamas. There is a push, she added, to also become known as the home of events, entertainment and innovation. As the Cabinet Chair of an initiative called 'Innovate 242,' designed to establish The Bahamas as the center of innovation in the Caribbean, Minister Moxey revealed that through that initiative the Ministry for Grand Bahama will develop a Business Incubator at the former Royal Palm Resort. Within the Incubator will be a Creative Business Center, which will assist potential entrepreneurs in creative businesses and other endeavours.  The Creative Business Center will help budding entrepreneurs take their business ideas from concept to launch, and will assist with all the resources needed to get their businesses going. “This incubator will also house our 'Center for Sustainability,'” explained Minister Moxey. “This is where we hope that international organizations and others can come together for research and development on creative ways to assist with climate change, resiliency, adaptation and mitigation.  As we know, Grand Bahama is the home of resiliency because we’ve weathered many storms. “So, through this Career Fair, we believe that all sorts of opportunities will be made available. You will be able to touch and feel and speak to some professionals who are here in that space.  Perhaps it will cause you to want to venture into those areas of expertise.” Minister Moxey reminded the senior students that the sky was the limit for them and Grand Bahama has so much to offer to help them reach their goals, live their dreams. Students were given a 'Career Fair Passport,' which contained the logo and name of every company participating in the Career Fair.  As students visited each company, they would have their 'passport' stamped or signed by a company representative: it was designed to encourage students to visit all the booths at the Career Fair, allowing them to explore all of the career opportunities available.