Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Patrick Todd

The importance of the role of the Barbados Community College (BCC) in responding to the country’s labour market needs has been highlighted.

According to Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Patrick Todd, “the BCC must ensure that it continues to keep Barbados at the forefront of economic and social development.”

Speaking at the BCC’s 40th Anniversary Gala last Saturday, Minister Todd stated that, “the present global environment requires that tertiary institutions be flexible and responsive to the ever-evolving labour market needs of the communities which they serve.”

Minister Todd also advised that the college develop structures for constant consultation, “to ascertain the needs of stakeholders, rapid curriculum modification, speedy upgrade of facilities and readiness for implementation for required changes.

“Over the next three to five years, the college will be expected to introduce programmes that are in keeping with the identified needs of our country and the region. These include those which capitalise on renewable resources, food security and the development and expansion of an entrepreneurial class, issues which, if properly addressed, will ensure the sustainable development of Barbados and the region,” he outlined.

Pointing out that the college had “arguably the most comprehensive range of programme offerings among post-secondary institutions in the English-speaking Caribbean”, the former teacher stressed the significance of the institution on the island’s educational landscape. 

“The college has impacted Barbados tremendously and has helped us as a nation to realise substantial improvements in all sectors of our society, particularly in health care, hospitality, tourism and the arts,” he noted.

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