The National Training Board of Bermuda signed a memorandum of understanding with Holland College recently. The memorandum will bring a number of full-time students to the college annually, and gives the college the opportunity to pursue other training opportunities with the Bermudian government.

The memorandum states that the Bermudian Ministry of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing will contract Holland College to provide education and training for Bermudians in specific areas, including those related to tourism and hospitality. Additionally, through Holland College's Marine Training Centre, the Marine Cadet Summer Program will expand to accommodate Bermudian students. Dozens of students from The Bahamas have participated in the college's Marine Cadet program over the past few years. The program prepares them for entry-level positions as Bridge Watch and Engine Room ratings on commercial vessels.

"By working together through the training and education partnerships that will be facilitated by this agreement, islands like Bermuda and Prince Edward Island will achieve bigger objectives. Together we will equip our labour forces to compete at the highest levels in an increasingly competitive global economy," said Michael O'Grady, Vice President of Innovation, Enterprise and Strategic Development, who oversees Holland College's international development projects.

At the official announcement in Bermuda recently, Lt. Col. David Burch, Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing, said the memorandum will provide pathways to higher education for Bermudian students.

"Holland College has been successful in attaining 65 articulation agreements with universities across North America and Europe. These agreements enable graduates of their institution to continue their studies in university and receive credit for the work they have already completed. The National Training Board is attempting to ensure that Bermudian students are well-placed to receive such opportunities, pending their own contributions and efforts," he said.

In addition to Bermudian students attending full-time programs, the college will provide apprenticeship training for Bermudian students. This February, three Bermudians employed with Fairmont Hotels will come to The Culinary Institute of Canada to complete block training for their Red Seal designations. Holland College will also explore other apprenticeship and customized training opportunities with the Bermudian government.

In this picture: L to R: Lt. Col. David Burch, Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing for Bermuda and Michael O'Grady vice president responsible for international recruitment at Holland College with Dr. Derrick Binns, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing. Photo courtesy of Government of Bermuda