The Tribune

IN AN effort to build a thriving network of former students, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is set to relaunch its alumni association.

A 2013 Computer Repair graduate, Ronnique Ferguson is the driving force behind the association and is assisted by a planning committee which includes BTVI’s activities co-ordinator, Colin Francis and former students Genta Brown and Sheryl Pyfrom-Leary.

“We should want to give back to BTVI, which has played a role in getting us where we are or where we’re going. It’s where we got that hands-on technical education.

“Being products of BTVI, we should want to continually sow seeds where we were planted,” said Ms Ferguson.

Various initiatives are already being discussed, including how the association can assist current students and the community at large, in addition to making a donation to the institution. Plans will be revealed following the launch meeting for the general body on May 29 at BTVI, when officers will be elected.

Mr Francis described joining the alumni association as a good investment. “Former students will be going into the workforce and spreading the word of what BTVI has to offer. The association would help keep the institution’s spirit alive. An alumni association always brings students back. We want them to play a greater role in terms of the institution’s growth,” said Mr Francis, who is also an instructor and counsellor.

Mr Francis also commended Ms Ferguson for her efforts. “From last year, she was advocating an alumni association. She has been working the field and speaking with students from her graduating class and it has been favourably received,” said Mr Francis.

“Even students who are about to graduate, we want them to join, so the association is never depleted of numbers,” he added.