
BDF DONATES $30,000.00 TO SJPI
The BDF Donates $30,000.00 To The Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of technology
BDF Committed To Youth Development
Media Release BDF Media and Communications|5 May 2022
The Barbados Coast Guard donated $30, 000.00 in equipment to the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI) Automotive and Welding Engineering Department. The donation comprised of Caterpillar Marine 3208 engine parts and supplies.
According to Lieutenant (Coast Guard) Jerome Belle, Divisional Officer Engineering, this donation supports the Barbados Defence Force’s mandate to assist in youth development, by way of an investment of this type to support their ambition and careers. Lt (CG) Belle went on to underscore the importance of realistic hands on training for marine technicians and for the need of the SJPIT to become a regional leading institute in maritime courses.
The BDF and the SJPI boasts a positive and productive relationship, spanning over 20years. This relationship has seen the annual training of students enrolled in the Diploma in Marine Diesel Engineering and the Diploma in Maritime Operations programs at the Barbados Coast Guard (BCG). At present, there are 10-second-year students registered for the exchange training.
Mr Ian Drakes, Principal of SJPI during his remarks and appreciation to the Barbados Coast Guard, mentioned that “this opportunity, is the BCG investing heavily in the youth of Barbados and I hope they (the youth) learn to appreciate and also the navigate with the instructions that is delivered to them on a continuous basis.” The technical students are exposed to marine diesel engines, ship science, propulsion systems and health and safety in the maritime environment. Additionally, during the summer for 6 weeks, final-year students conduct their Industrial Attachment with the Barbados Coast Guard’s Engineering Division.
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During this period, students execute practice skills and knowledge gained over their course of study. This on-the-job training, not only focuses on marine engineering, but also seeks to cultivate desirable work ethics. Under the guidance of the Engineering Division’s senior marine technicians, the students are exposed to international industry standards and practices.
These students, like many others, benefit from the structured environment offered by the military and increases their marketability. As such, today, many past student of the program are currently employed with the Barbados Port Inc., Atlantis Submarine Barbados, several local pleasure crafts and the Barbados Coast Guard.
As Barbados continues to fully embrace local, regional and international job opportunities within the Maritime Sectors and the Blue Economy, courses such as the Diploma in Marine Diesel Engineering, offers a suitable foundation for students.