Sandals gives $120 000 to expand UWI youth development programme

US$60 000 (BD$120 000) donation from the Sandals Foundation is set to expand The University of the West Indies’ Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges (PTFTC) programme.

The programme, which has been running for over eight years, focuses on equipping students with essential personal and professional skills not typically taught in traditional academic settings.

Speaking at the media launch on Monday, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The UWI Global Campus, Dr Francis Severin noted the importance of the programme’s impact on youth development.

“Our Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges initiative has positively impacted the lives of close to 1 000 students in Barbados, and this donation ensures that we can reach even more,” he said.

“Education is a costly endeavour, and the good news is that the cost of not educating our youth far surpasses the cost of education itself,” Severin added, noting that the tangible consequences of inadequate education include rising crime rates.

In celebrating the Sandals Foundation’s generous contribution, he expressed gratitude for the support that allows the programme to thrive and acknowledged the importance of community partnerships in education.

Coordinator of the PTFTC programme, Sandra Griffith, echoed Severin’s sentiments, stating that the media launch marks the beginning of a promising new chapter for participating students.

“Over the past eight years, we have nurtured 1 021 participants and witnessed their growth,” she shared.

Griffith said the programme provides essential skills and opportunities, especially for returning fifth-form students, motivating them to continue their education and equipping them with entry-level employment skills.

She reported that there has been positive feedback from companies that have hired PTFTC graduates, noting their proficiency in soft skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.

The most outstanding student from each school is given the chance to intern at the Global Campus, with the opportunity to present their experiences before a panel.

Griffith explained that the student is then recommended for an extended internship, revealing that this year’s recipient was Abigail Wiggins from The St Michael’s School. However, she noted that Wiggins chose to further her education and the internship opportunity was, therefore, presented to Alexandra Oliva.

Education Officer Shirelene Griffith Willoughby, speaking on behalf of the Chief Education Officer, emphasised the programme’s alignment with the Ministry of Education’s goals, highlighting the value of social and interpersonal skills in preparing students for the 21st-century workforce.

She also stressed the importance of partnerships in achieving educational transformation.

During his address, Public Relations Manager at Sandals Barbados, David Hinds reaffirmed Sandals Foundation’s commitment to youth development.

“Education is the foundation of progress, not just for individuals, but for the entire community,” he said. “The Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges programme takes a strategic approach, developing a curriculum that supports the holistic development of students, a pioneering approach in every aspect.”

Hinds also encouraged the participating students to embrace the lessons that will be learned over the course of the six-month long programme, further expressing pride in the partnership and the programme’s potential. (SM)