The Barbados Defence Force is presently in the advanced stages of developing a competency-base education and training system. (FP)

The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) is pursuing accreditation through the Barbados Accreditation Council (BAC) to become recognized as a registered tertiary institution.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Dale Marshall, made this disclosure on Saturday during the BDF’s 40th Anniversary Parade and Sunset ceremony, held under the patronage of Commander-In-Chief, Governor General Dame Sandra Mason, at St. Ann’s Fort.

He explained that the BDF was presently in the advanced stages of developing a competency-base education and training system, which will see the Force securing registration with the BAC as a registered tertiary institution.

“The achievement of full accreditation with the Council will see the Force as an awarding body for national and regional vocational training qualifications,” he said.

He explained that the BDF, in collaboration with the TVET Council, will be offering several Caribbean Vocational Qualifications, which included management, leadership and providing security services.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Dale Marshall, explained that the BDF, in collaboration with the TVET Council, will be offering several Caribbean Vocational Qualifications. (FP)

The Attorney General told those present that the BDF would also take the lead on establishing the Barbados YouthADVANCE Corps, which is intended to align with the three-pronged national first job initiative. The Corps is also expected to provide for further learning in a disciplined environment and to make a meaningful intervention to create opportunities to inculcate positive behavior.

“The Corps will strive to make each participant a more effective and productive member of society,” Mr. Marshall said.

He further noted that the Force had also maintained programmes to assist with the development of the youth through the Barbados Cadet Corps.

 “I am pleased to announce that the first intake to increase the size of the sea cadets to a 1,000-strong element has started training and will graduate to the ranks of the Barbados Cadet Corps at month-end. A second intake will start in September and subsequent cohorts will continue until the goal is achieved,” he reported.

Mr. Marshall also lauded the BDF’s initiative to develop mentorship programmes with the Edna Nicholls Centre, and another which will be launched soon with the Westbury Primary School.

He further commended the BDF for its efforts at developing the Field Medical Facility; assisting with repairs at the Geriatric Hospital and providing engineering assistance to the Barbados Water Authority in the construction of buildings to house emergency power generators.

“The Barbadian public has been blessed with the contribution of the BDF’s 40 years of existence,” he stated.

The evening’s celebrations climaxed with a fireworks display in honour of the BDF’s achievements throughout the years.

julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb

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