Bahamas News

BAHAMAS: PM’s Address of UWI School of Clinical Medicine and Research Induction & Awards

Published

5 years ago

June 25, 2019

Deandrea Hamilton

#Nassau, June 25, 2019 – Bahamas –

Good Afternoon:

Thank you for your invitation to be with you this afternoon. I add my acknowledgement to the established protocol.

Let me begin by congratulating the graduates of the medical class of 2019. The expressions, glow and relief on your faces remind me about my feelings after final exams some 30 years ago.

Before final exams, you wondered whether you knew enough and whether the examiners might ask things you did not fully know or might not remember. After the exams, there was some disappointment, because you weren’t asked not even five percent of what you studied.

Then, in the words of Scripture, joy came in the morning after the results sank in, and you were called Dr. for the first time. For me, as I am sure for many of you, it was the joy of being the first medical doctor in my family. I was proud to realize my own dreams and the dreams of my parents and family.

So today, fellow graduates, it is not just your day. It is also a day to celebrate your family, friends and the many others who supported you and helped to make your dream come true.

I add my own congratulations to that of your family members. They built the foundation for your successes as well as the rest of the structure you needed to sustain you through your journey through medical school.

But let me quickly remind you graduates, that after your great joy, you will soon face the realities of securing a job. This has become a challenge even starting out on your first job as an intern. It may be even more challenging being accepted into a postgraduate program.

Medicine has changed dramatically over the past decades. In my graduation class there were six Bahamians. Last year the Government of The Bahamas guaranteed 47 internship spots for Bahamian medical graduates of the UWI Faculty of Medical Sciences. Still, our physician resource needs remain.

We need more primary care physicians throughout the Family Islands, especially if they are to become greater platforms for economic and social development. We need to provide for a variety of specialist areas, especially in areas, like ENT, where senior physicians are retiring in fairly quick succession. The era of the general specialist is fast coming to an end.

Accordingly, I urge you to look beyond the DM programmes.

I urge you to provide a variety of subspecialty needs such as fetal and maternal medicine, developmental pediatrics, urogynecology and other areas.

Dear Graduates:

I have to keep reminding the residents of New Providence, that Nassau is not The Bahamas. My responsibility as prime minister is the development of our entire far-flung island-chain.

Let me give you an example of the bounty and breadth of our archipelago of possibilities. In some ways, we are as much a region as we are a country.

The Bahamas from north to south occupies approximately the same geographical length of the United Kingdom from north to south. If you fly in a jet from Grand Bahama to Inagua, your trip will take one hour and 35 minutes. It is a distance of approximately 500 miles.

By comparison, the distance from Nassau to Jamaica is 450 miles. That flight would be 15 minutes shorter at one hour and twenty minutes.

Eighty percent of our tourism activity and 70 percent of our population is found on the two percent of our land, that of New Providence and Paradise Island. The other 98 percent of our far-flung archipelago have all of these same fundamental assets, but remain largely underdeveloped.

With this abundance of natural gifts, government alone cannot develop our archipelago in the diversity of sectors required for economic growth and expansion. The role of government is to help provide the Bahamian people and investors and international partners with the incentives to develop the Islands of The Bahamas.

To expand and grow our economy now, and for a better future for all Bahamians, will require the sustainable development of our Family of Islands and cays. This includes areas like health care and medicine.

The Bahamas is changing.

You should have a vision that takes advantage of the changes in the medium- and long-term.

After years of economic struggle, Grand Bahama is about to go through an economic boom because of two mega projects and a number of other developments. Already land values are rising for both commercial and residential properties.

Grand Bahama will need even more doctors and medical professionals.

For the past 15 years or more, Grand Bahama has been searching for a general surgeon. Our Bahamian general surgeons have yet to find a foothold or home on Grand Bahama, despite the recent increasing numbers of general surgery graduates both from UWI and in North America.

Islands like Abaco, Long Island and Exuma are going to see a surge in international second home owners. The numbers of tourists, including boaters, to our islands are increasing.

We are also providing incentives for Bahamians who want to build second homes in the Family Islands. These islands and others require new infrastructure, and services like medical care.

This is why we are modernizing health care facilities in various Family Islands as well as building new airports at Exuma, North Eleuthera and Long Island.

I invite you to adopt a pioneering spirit to be a resident specialist in the more populated family islands rather than being a monthly of weekly visitor to see a few patients.

You may be pleasantly surprised that you may have a better quality of life on the Family Island than you might competing with numerous doctors on New Providence. All of our major islands have the necessary communications technologies for commercial needs and personal needs like entertainment and the use of social media.

Land on which to build a home is typically less expensive on the Family Islands than on New Providence. Many of our islands have good primary and high schools and are good environments on which to raise children.

The entire Bahamas is your oyster.

The one downside may be that your parents, family and friends may never stop visiting you because they want a break from Nassau that may last months at a time.

Graduates:

Two years ago, the public service human resource database revealed that some 274 SHOs are employed in the government facilities of which only 28 percent are actively enrolled in a postgraduate programme. Forty percent of them have been employed for over six years. This is costing the government some $17 million per year.

The health care system can no longer provide employment to every medical graduate. The era of the house staff career physician is no longer sustainable.

I invite and challenge the University to be more engaged in career path planning for our young physicians. The era where after internship one can go and easily set up private practice, is long gone.

I suggest to you graduates, that by the time of completion of your internship, you have enrolled or you are actively pursing to enroll in a postgraduate program, or that you have sat the United States Medical Licensing Examination or PLAB.

You should also commit that by the end of your first year post-internship that you are in a postgraduate programme. And it does not have to be clinical medicine.

There are other areas you might consider such as medical management, public health, informatics, biostatics and epidemiology, all of which are essential needs.

The new disciplines in medicine on the horizon are almost unlimited.

Dear Graduates,

I welcome you to our noble profession. The world is at your feet. Start walking. Learn to run and soar into the future.

Congratulations!

The world of healthcare awaits you. All the best for a bright future.

May God bless you on your new journey and may God bless The Bahamas.

Bahamas News

Pacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme

Published

8 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

Office of University Relations

22^nd April 2024

Eleuthera, THE BAHAMAS – A pioneering cohort of 43 Eleuthera residents graduated from the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) free Leading Light Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) on Friday 19^th April, 2024.

The programme, launched in February 2024 and delivered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN), offers a series of courses to ensure Eleuthera has a proficient workforce capable of delivering unparalleled hospitality leadership as the island experiences a sharp growth in tourism arrivals. The graduation ceremony was held at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce Business Hub in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

The courses focused on tourism and hospitality skills, leadership development and effective communication. They were taught by UB faculty and included guest lecturers such as former Director General of Tourism, Minister of Tourism and Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Vincent Vanderpool Wallace and veteran hospitality professor Dr. Lincoln Marshall.

“This programme represents the mission-driven collaboration and skills-building that University of The Bahamas is committed to fostering, supported by an important industry partner like Disney Cruise Line,” noted UB President (Acting) Janyne Hodder. “Given the importance of the tourism industry to our nation, we know how vital it is that we continually equip our workforce with diverse expertise to uphold our reputation for excellence in hospitality. We are grateful for this collaboration with Disney Cruise Line which has facilitated programme delivery in Eleuthera, enabling UB to broaden access to much sought-after professional development.”

As training and skills development programming grows across the island of Eleuthera, the Leading Light Programme experience was tailored to be free of charge, accessible and conclude with participants earning a UB certification that signals the high standard of education for which the University is recognized. Students came from all walks of life and traveled from as far away as Hatchet Bay in the North, and Bannerman Town in the South to Rock Sound for classes. Programme participants also received a stipend to defray the cost of commuting and other personal expenses.

Nora Smith, a manager at the picturesque Jack’s Bay Club, yearned to increase her skills.

“I would recommend this programme to anyone because The Bahamas is known as a tourism destination. Taking this course in tourism and hospitality, can help me to go far in dealing with tourists daily in my workplace,” she said.

Graduate Javonne Richards appreciated the comprehensive curriculum and the ease of access to the courses that were offered.

“This programme not only fills a gap in our Eleuthera education offerings, but also equips participants with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he noted.

Director General of Tourism Mrs. Latia Duncombe, who delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony, shared three essential qualities for successful tourism professionals: energy, creativity and a welcoming personality.

“Your fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are invaluable to creating unique, unforgettable customer experiences,” said Mrs. Duncombe. “While technology such as Artificial Intelligence, also have a role to play, human interaction remains essential.”

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera the Honourable Clay Sweeting commended the partnership that is supporting community growth.

“I am proud of every Eleutheran who came from near and far to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Minister Sweeting. “As Eleuthera’s economy continues to grow, especially in Central and South Eleuthera, I encourage more corporate partners to invest in the local community in innovative ways, like the University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line have, so that we can continue to strengthen our local communities.”

Two additional cohorts will be offered this year, increasing the pipeline of Eleutherans who are optimally skilled as hospitality and tourism ambassadors. Registration for the summer programme will open on May 17 and the second cycle of courses begins June 17, 2024. Fall programme dates are September 23 through November 29, 2024. To learn more about the Leading Light Programme and how to enroll, please email atynes@eleutherahambercommerce.com.

Bahamas News

Royal Caribbean to open Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in 2025

Published

16 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Shanieka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

By LINDSAY THOMPSON

Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Government entered into a Heads of Agreement with Royal Caribbean International, followed by a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the construction of Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, at an estimated $165 million.

The agreement was signed on Monday, April 22, 2024 during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper, the project will further enhance the tourism product, on the heels of an estimated 9 million visitor arrivals.

He deemed it “an eventful day” with a reliable partner in RCI of more than 50 years with The Bahamas, and the continued confidence that investors have in the tourism product and economy.

He said it is a partnership with “excellence experiences” as he delighted in the fact that there will be more for the 25,000 cruise ship guests in port.

Also on hand for the activities to seal the agreement were Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis; Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville; Minister of Energy and Transport, the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Ryan Pinder; Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna; executives of Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group, and other officials.

“With the signing of this Heads of Agreement for the development of the Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, we embark on a $165 million project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” the prime minister said.

Spearheaded by RBC Paradise Island Ltd. and PDI Paradise Ltd., subsidiaries of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the project will galvanize entertainment and recreational offerings for Bahamians and visitors alike.

The master plan for the Royal Beach Club includes pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, offering an unparalleled on-shore experience for visitors.

“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister then underscored the importance of what the project would mean for Bahamians in the broader scope of things.

An estimated 200 jobs will be created for Bahamians. However, an opportunity is being provided for shared ownership in this development.

It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51% of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining 49 % shares being allocated to the National Investment Fund for the benefit of Bahamians.

“Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation. Local businesses will see their share of opportunities as well. There will be Bahamian boutiques creating avenues for small business ownership,” the prime minister said.

The project will also encompass a joint venture with a Bahamian-owned entity for the operation of a water taxi business; it will provide transportation options for guests of the Royal Beach Club, as well as other attractions in Nassau Harbour – enhancing accessibility while creating additional avenues for economic growth within the community.

“Ultimately, this project will largely be run by Bahamians, owned by the Bahamian people, and supported by Bahamian businesses.

“When we talk about the need to ensure that major tourism projects are primarily for the benefit of the Bahamian people, these are the kinds of opportunities that we are talking about,” the prime minister said.

He observed that the Royal Beach Club represents the latest successful chapter in the story of Paradise Island’s growth as a tourism mecca. Initial negotiations for the project began under the previous administration. Royal Club Beach is expected to open in 2025.

“By signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry. This is our nation, and we must ensure that, first and foremost, our service industries serve us,” the prime minister said.

He concluded, “We are more optimistic than ever before about our economic prospects with tourism leading the way as our number one industry that continues to grow at a record-breaking pace.

At the ground breaking site just west of the Atlantis Resort, officials tilled the soil, marking the beginning of the construction process.

Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group said that events regarding the agreement “symbolize partnership, momentum, and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community.

“We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”

Bahamas News

Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement Signed between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province

Published

23 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

By LLONELLA GILBERT
Bahamas Information Services

NASSAU, The Bahamas — A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province.

The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama represented The Bahamas at the signing.

His Excellency Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; and Yang Peiran, Interpreter represented the People’s Republic of China.

Minister Moxey explained that in February 2022, she and the former Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dai Qingli began discussion on the establishment of a province-island relationship between Hunan Province and Grand Bahama Island because of their “immense synergy”.

“Hunan has a vibrant creative industry and its capital city, Changsha is known as the entertainment capital of China, whilst Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of entertainment in ‘Our Bluepoint for Change’.”

She said Hunan Province boasts 11 industrial sectors and Grand Bahama is the industrial capital of The Bahamas. Further, innovation driven development has been a new driving force for Hunan, while Grand Bahama is poised to become the home of innovation for The Bahamas.

Minister Moxey said she is confident that an exchange of knowledge, ideas and culture will happen between the residents of Hunan Province and Grand Bahama.

“There is potential for robust trade in various sectors, opportunities for tourism promotion and intercultural appreciation, exchanges to support performing arts programs on our island, foster growth within the Orange Economy, and tap into China’s innovation, technology and vast expertise.”

She said that the formal signing aligns with the mission of Sister Cities International, which is to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, one community at a time.

The Minister said, “Through collaborative programs and initiatives, this connection will support the government’s vision to diversity Grand Bahama’s economy to become the Home of Maritime and Logistics, Home of Events and Entertainment and Home of Innovation.”

She noted that in addition to signing the agreement, she looks forward to Grand Bahama residents benefitting from the signing of the Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding between Central South University and University of The Bahamas (UB), which will expand educational and technical cooperation between the two universities. The northern campus of UB is located in Grand Bahama.

His Excellency Mao Weiming said although geographically far apart, China and The Bahamas are friends with mutual respect and understanding as well as sincerity.

He explained that 27 years ago, both countries established diplomatic relations and China and The Bahamas have deepened their cooperation, strengthened their friendship and carried out many activities in the field of economy, trade and people-to-people exchange.

His Excellency recalled that in August 2022, he and Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis had a video conference where they both reached a consensus to cooperate in order to usher a new chapter in the relationship between Hunan and The Bahamas.

“Today, we are here to sign a sister-to-sister relationship between Hunan and Grand Bahama. It is [a] concrete move to implement our consensus reached before and also to embark on a new journey of friendly exchanges.”

He added, “By establishing the relationship of sister cities, I believe the two sides will develop further in terms of economic and trade cooperation, people to people exchange, as well as friendship, and we will embrace new opportunities and deliver concrete benefits for the two peoples.”

He explained that Hunan, which is the home town of Chairman Mao, the founder of the People’s Republic of China, has developed very advanced industries of manufacturing, agriculture, education, culture as well as tourism.

His Excellency said he believes that Hunan and Grand Bahama enjoy very broad room for cooperation.

He said, “More efforts should be made to conduct cooperation in the fields of agriculture, tourism, culture, education and the film industry so as to realize a connectivity between our two sides in terms of logistics and the platform cooperation; so as to deliver concrete benefits for the people and to make our due contribution to the bilateral relationship between China and The Bahamas.”

PHOTO CAPTION

A significant milestone was made in the development of bilateral relations between the Governments of The Bahamas and the People’s Republic of China by the signing of the Sister Province/Island Relationship Agreement between Grand Bahama Island and Hunan Province. The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Shown from left: Qu Hai, Secretary General of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; Cui Wei, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; Yang Peiran, Interpreter H.E. Mao Weiming, Governor of Hunan Provincial People’s Government; the Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama; the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Minister of Health and Wellness; Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Joel Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama.

(BIS Photos/Anthon Thompson)