Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) - is excited to announce the addition of ten new educational programmes. They include Associate of Applied Science programmes in Business Office Technology and Office Administration and certificate programmes in Information Technology Management, Information Technology Security + and Server +, Information Technology Specialist, Electronic & Cable Installation, Electronics Engineering Installers & Repairs, Construction Technology and Solar Energy Technology.

BTVI, offers students a convenient class scheduling, allowing students to balance life, work, and coursework as they pursue a higher education.

"By adding these much sought-after programmes to our already rich curriculum, we are better equipped to give students the tools they need to succeed in existing and emerging occupations," says Sean Adderley, BTVI Public Relations Officer. "We strongly believe that by offering unique education opportunities at our school, BTVI will be able to provide the community with graduates who possess the skills and knowledge needed to help the Bahamas continue to prosper."

BTVI also offers certificate programmes in Masonry, Tiling, Welding, Plumbing, Electrical, Air Condition & Refrigeration, Carpentry, Auto Mechanic and Collision, Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Esthetics, Barbering, Fashion Design, Computer Technician and Cisco Networking.

For more information about the school's new programmes, visit BTVI Websiteor call 502-6300.

On June 25, 2009, The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) celebrated its 29th commencement ceremonies at the Diplomat Centre. The Class of 2009 comprising 125 students was awarded Certificates for successful completion of their Programme.

Present for the occasion was the Permanent Secretary of Education, Mrs. Elma Garraway, Dr. Iva Dahl, Manager/Consultant BTVI and Daytona State College, Director of Economics for International Operations, Dr. Ted Sofianos. Mrs. Garraway participated in presenting students with certificates. Students were adorned in royal blue gowns with white stoles. The audience comprised of faculty, parents, friends, and relatives of the students, witnessed the momentous occasion for our graduates.

The graduation ceremony spelled gaiety, delight, and enthusiasm. Mrs. Garraway congratulated the Class of 2009 on successfully completing their Programme of Studies and said “you have made all of us at the Ministry of Education proud for staying the course that may have sometimes been difficult. It has brought you to this wonderful and exciting milestone in your lives. You persevered, studied diligently, polished your skills, and made a promise to yourself, that at the end of the course, you would be able to walk across this stage and receive your certificate. This is the type of discipline will serve you well as you embark on the next leg of your journey. So far you have done very well.”

Speaking to the audience, Mrs. Garraway, said “The theme, “Technical Education –Keeping Your Career Recession Proof” is very timely, because it advises you to invest in yourselves through the pursuit of life long learning. The way for you to keep your career recession proof is through constantly building yourself. This means updating your current skills, enhancing your knowledge, networking with others in the field, keeping abreast of new developments, and most importantly, acquiring the training necessary to be competitive in more than one field. Not only should you seek to make yourself indispensable by doing these things, but you should practice good work ethics, foster a respectful attitude, become a team player, and be a positive role model. Your next steps and decisions from this point forward are very important. Whether you intend to enter the world of work, or continue with further study, you will be entering a competitive arena. Endeavour to always do the best that you can, and to be the best at what you do. When your future boss or professor chooses the top five persons who are producing in the class or for the organization, let your name be amongst the five.”

Dr. Dahl, Manager of the Institute added, "I graduation ceremonies provides recognition for those who persevered. This is the day we all look forward to." Dr. Dahl, who also gave an overview of BTVI's annual report and achievements, said that the Class of 2009 has done remarkably well. The students have set new trends, organized events, participated in competitions, gained international recognition, all this and more while studying for their certificates, she remarked. Graduate, Ms. Jodelisa St. Jean gave the student’s response. “None of us are content to let others determine our destiny. It is through determination that we got to this day," said St. Jean. "If you have shared any of my experiences, you're finding that you are a changed person. I am a better woman for having this experience. I have finally found the path that's going to lead to my life's purpose."

BTVI National Technical Honors Society (NTHS) recognized the meritorious students for their achievements. The NTHS awards students with exceptional academic performance. This year the NTHS Awardees included: Garnette Hall, Agnes Gilbert, Monalisa Rolle, Deanka Smith and Jodelisa St. Jean.

The Graduation Ceremony concluded with the ceremonial turning of the tassels by the outgoing Class of 2009. Families and friends applauded this emotional and proud moment.

Tool Kit supplies will be presented to BTVI students on September 2, 2009

Coca Cola Company is making ‘back-to-school’ in the upcoming school year a little easier for students attending Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI). Coca Cola Marketing Manager, Michelle Lewis presented a gift of ten tool kits to BTVI and Manager, Dr. Iva Dahl, on Thursday May 14th.

Ms. Lewis said, “We realize that the cost to prepare students for school can be challenging for some families. We hope that these supplies help to alleviate some of the stress that can occur when students do not have the right tools to start the new school year.”

Dr. Dahl said, “BTVI truly thanks Coca Cola Company for their generous donations, which will go directly to BTVI’s students. This will help ensure that our students will begin the school year with the requisite tools.”

Well trained motor engine trades people are always in demand the students of the Mechanical Programme at the Bahamas Technical Institute (BTVI) were told on a recent visit by Ramjeet Jerrybandan V.P. Overseas Operations, Consolidated Water Group (CWCO). Mr. Jerrybandan paid a courtesy call on Dr. Iva Dahl consultant to BTVI and the faculty teachers to learn more on the classes offered and was especially interested in a possible Diesel Engine course. CWCO built, own and operate the Blue Hills Sea Water Reverse Osmosis facility in Nassau, and need diesel engine and other motor mechanics to maintain, repair and sometimes rebuild diesel and petrol engines to keep the plant running efficiently.

The Bahamas Technical & Vocational (BTVI) newly renovated building will house the admission, registration, and student financial aid office. Mrs. Raquel Bethel, Coordinator of the project, said the new layout and design is BTVI’s saying to the public that “we want to serve you.”

“The old space was simply not vary customer friendly and able to accommodate larger groups, Bethel said. She added that the new design layout provides almost twice the square footage and functionality. Our customer service representatives can now service clients face to face in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

“Our admissions office is where first impressions are made, “Bethel said. “BTVI wants to make a good first impression. We want to let the public know they can rely upon us to provide quality technical and career training.”

Around 90 members of the community came out early Saturday morning in support for technical and career education to assist in raising funds for students in need. The enthusiastic walkers hit the streets, the walk from BTVI Old Trail Campus to the foot of the Paradise Island Bridge and back to campus proved an exciting feat for all. The first annual walk-a-thon was a tremendous success with over $8,000 in donations raised through sponsorships and registration fees. Despite the economic down turn the show of support by sponsors was very encouraging. “It demonstrates that the local community remains committed to raising funds to help our students”, said Sean Adderley, Public Relations Officer at BTVI. “Attendance for the walk-a-thon was great, and the beautiful weather was certainly welcomed by the walkers, added Mr. Adderley.”

The winning walker was Mr. Philip Moss, second place title went to William Mackey and Donnell Forbes, took home 3rd place trophy. “It was beautiful, “Ms. Forbes noted after crossing the finish line.” I loved every single mile of it.” Persons interested in viewing pictures from the event can go online at www.btvi.org.bs

Students and Faculty of the Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) are hitting the pavement in an effort to promote technical & career education awareness & support. The Walk-it-out …. Let BTVI guide you along the path to career success Walk-A-Thon is being hosted at BTVI campus on Old Trail Road, Saturday, February 21. Registration will begin at 6:00am.

The walk-a-thon scheduled to begin at the BTVI campus Old Trail Road will travel through Marathon Road to Paradise Island Bridge before returning back to campus’ for a Junkanoo rush out, mini massages, souse out and awards ceremony.

“This event is about BTVI Community Awareness with so many people out of work and challenging economic times. BTVI faculty, staff, alumni and friends are coming together to do something to assist our students,” said Sean Adderley, Public Relations Officer at BTVI.” BTVI will also like to thank our many sponsors such as A.I.D., Thompson Trading, McGraw Hill, Bahamasair, Bahamas Fast Ferries, Global Tiles, Pinder Tiles, Marley Resort & Spa, to name a few.”

An initiative started by BTVI Manager, Dr. Iva Dahl, the Walk-A-thon’s aims is to raise money to assist students who have trouble finding funds for books and supplies. Many students receive financial assistance that still does not cover the entire cost associated with higher education.

The General Public is invited to get involved in this event in a very visible way. Persons interested in participating can do so by paying a $12 registration fee. Participants will receive a free t-shirt and giveaways. All information and details about the event can be found on the BTVI website located at www.btvi.org.bs or contact us directly at 502-6300.