News
Turks and Caicos Islands Community College Celebrates 29th Annual Commencement Ceremony
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) proudly hosted its 29th Annual Commencement Ceremony under the inspiring theme: “30 Years of Developing Our Nation-Builders: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Present, Inspiring the Future.” The event, held at the Yellowman and Sons Auditorium, marked a historic milestone with a record-breaking 194 graduates from the Associate, Bachelor’s, and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programmes.
Among the 194 graduates, 69 earned Associate degrees, 29 completed Bachelor’s degrees, and 96 were TVET trainees. Demonstrating academic excellence, 25% of the Associate degree graduates achieved Dean’s List recognition with GPAs above 3.5, while Bachelor’s graduates celebrated a range of honours classifications: 14% earned Upper Second-Class Honours, 69% achieved Lower Second-Class Honours, and 17% secured a Pass.
The ceremony was attended by an audience of over 500, including distinguished dignitaries such as Acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams; Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education; Honourable Otis Morris, Minister of Home Affairs; and Honourable Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism. Also present were other past and current government officials, families and well-wishers of the graduands,
as well as the dedicated staff and faculty of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.
The Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, commended the graduating class and paid tribute to the institution’s rich legacy. She remarked, “As the Minister with responsibilities for Education, I was delighted to witness the graduation ceremony for the cohort of students who walked across the stage and received their certificate in their field of study. Our students have been resilient in their efforts to empower themselves through education. It was enlightening to witness the (ninety-six) 96 candidates who were certified and received their Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) through our Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) from all our training sites on Providenciales, Grand Turk, South Caicos and the Prison. It blessed my heart to witness twenty (20) inmates receiving their certification. We truly believe that inmates who have access to and benefit from an education while in prison, develop marketable skills and are better equipped to reintegrate into society upon release. With this initiative in place and being strengthened to offer additional areas of study, our inmates are more likely to secure stable employment, contribute to their communities, and break the cycle of recidivism. As a Government, we have partnered with Invest TCI for entrepreneurial opportunities upon completion of our TVET programme. Our boost in registration at TCICC with over 38% increase in enrollment, is a testament of our intent to building Human Capital through Free Access to our community college.”
In her remarks, TCICC President Dr. Candice Williams highlighted the College’s enduring impact on the community, stating, “TCICC’s achievements this year are a testament to our commitment to excellence—TVET certifications soared by 109%, the Dean’s List grew by 169%, and 80% of our students benefit from free tuition. These achievements are transformative. They represent lives changed, communities empowered, and a nation enriched.”
A unique highlight of the event was the graduation of 20 inmates from the HM Prison under TCICC’s TVET Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme. These graduates were praised by staff at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for showing remarkable transformation in attitude and outlook, emphasising the College’s commitment to inclusive education and societal reintegration.
The ceremony also featured an inspiring address from three former leaders of TCICC: Rev. Dr. Julia Williams, Dr. Hubert Fulford, and Mrs. Clara Gardiner. Each shared heartfelt reflections on the College’s legacy while issuing powerful charges to the graduates to embrace their roles as changemakers in the community.
As TCICC continues to celebrate its 30th anniversary, this year’s commencement ceremony serves as a resounding testament to its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.
Link to Photos: TCICC 29th Commencement Ceremony Images
For further information, please contact:
June-Ann Campbell mco@tcicc.edu.tc
Marketing and Communications Officer
3 Success Way, Butterfield, Providenciales
Turks and Caicos Islands
TKCA 1ZZ
On World Refugee Day, we reflect on the stories of millions forced from their homes. “Every individual carries a story of profound loss,” the UN Secretary‑General reminds us in today’s message. Refugees from Sudan, Ukraine, Haiti, and Myanmar—among other crises—highlight a surge in forced displacement matched by dwindling global support unhcr.org.
New figures from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees confirm this grim reality: more than 122 million people globally are forcibly displaced as of early 2025—up nearly 2 million from last year—while host nations, often low‑ or middle‑income, carry the heaviest burden
The World Health Organization adds that protecting the health of displaced people is “solidarity in action,” yet budget cuts threaten
essential services in camps from Kenya to South Sudan.
The UN’s message is clear: refugees breathe courage and resilience, strengthening economies and communities when given opportunity. Yet xenophobia is rising; resettlement stalls, with under 8% of the world’s refugees finding safety abroad. Public opinion surveys show 67% support refugee protection, although 62% worry about economic impact.
Solidarity Means Action
On this day, unity must translate into support: humanitarian funding needs urgent replenishment; pathways to resettlement and asylum must be expanded; refugee voices need to shape policies; and long-term integration through education, decent work, and legal equality must become priorities.
“Becoming a refugee is never a choice,” the UN reminds us. But how the world responds is a choice. As crises persist—from Sudan’s civil war to Ukraine’s continued conflict—the choice is ours: uphold humanity and embrace solidarity, or let dwindling compassion define our legacy.
Bahamas News
SOILCARE PHASE II ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS HELD AS BAHAMAS JOINS A COALITION OF COUNTRIES COMMITTED TO RESTORING LANDSCAPES AND SECURING A RESILIENT AGRICULTURAL FUTURE
Turks and Caicos Islands, June 19, 2025 –Shining Stars Preparatory School students got an inspiring introduction to the world of finance during a recent visit to CIBC Caribbean. Adorned in costumes, the future professionals were welcomed by the bank in recognition of the school’s annual career day. The visit formed part of CIBC Caribbean’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and education. With bright eyes and inquisitive
minds, the students met with members of the Digital Banking, Personal and Business Banking (PBB) Sales, and Corporate Banking Support teams to learn more about the many career opportunities available within the financial services sector.
CIBC Caribbean Head of Country, Terrance Gibson, said, “At CIBC, we firmly believe that investing in our youth is investing in the future of TCI. Welcoming the students of Shining Stars Preparatory School into our space was not only a privilege, but a powerful reminder of why community engagement matters.” The students were enthusiastic throughout the visit, eagerly asking questions and expressing keen interest in the daily operations of the bank. Their curiosity was met with thoughtful insights from CIBC Caribbean team members, who shared their personal journeys and professional experiences in banking.
As part of its broader community outreach, CIBC Caribbean has adopted Shining Stars Preparatory School. The bank has collaborated on a number of initiatives that promote learning, growth, and opportunity for young people.
Gibson added, “These bright young minds are full of potential, and our hope is that by opening our doors and sharing our knowledge, we have helped to spark interest in careers in banking, finance, and beyond. This relationship with Shining Stars speaks to our long-standing commitment to youth development and supporting the communities we serve.”
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