Bahamas News
87 Adults Graduate from General Equivalency Diploma Programme
#Bahamas, October 27, 2017 – Nassau – Eighty-seven adults from inner-city communities in New Providence were recognized for successfully completing the General Equivalency Diploma (GED), a series of tests designed to measure proficiency which allows students to earn their high school equivalency credentials. The graduates received their diplomas during a special service at Salem Union Baptist Church, Taylor Street, on Sunday, October 22, 2017.
The GED programme is a jointly sponsored venture by the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development along with corporate sponsors including Atlantic College and various churches. The theme for the service was ‘Global Competence for an Inter-Connected World’.
In her remarks, the Hon. Lanisha Rolle, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, said the Government has made a decision to marry the work of Social Services and Urban Renewal to produce an “holistic” empowerment programme designed to achieve the socio-economic development of its people.
“This marriage, designed in paradise, has a built-in preventative measure and self-help component. While Social Services ensures those in need maintain an acceptable standard of living Urban Renewal executes on one end of its spectrum, programmes that will ensure needed citizens receive skills and competencies necessary to prevent our people from relying solely on the government for assistance, and on the other end of the spectrum, for our clients to be given opportunities to achieve or return to a state of independence.”
Minister Rolle said the redefined mission of Urban Renewal is to “Transform the physical environment of our heritage and over-the-hill communities through the delivery of empowerment programmes and social initiatives designed to develop urban environs and revitalize inner-city spaces across the length and breadth of The Bahamas.”
She reminded the graduates that the benefit of education has and will always outweigh the burden, and challenged them to go a little further, take their studies a little higher, extend themselves a little longer and make their life a journey of good choices.
“You have attained some of the knowledge and skills needed to enter the competitive world of work and beyond. You have been certified to function as an effective part of the workforce on a national level and, of course, you can choose to continue your studies with the University of the Bahamas, Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute and other private institutions all designed to equip you to excel in your endeavours.”
The subjects covered were Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Reading and Writing. The students honed in on topics including life skills, personal development, entrepreneurial studies and effective oral communication. The students were presented with plaques, trophies and certificates for their achievements.
By: Kathryn Campbell (BIS)
Photo Captions: Scenes from the General Equivalency Diploma Graduation Ceremony. (BIS Photos/Raymond A. Bethel Sr.)
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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