The Tribune

THE Bahamas National Trust has extended its Navigators programme to Anatol Rodgers Secondary School. The three-year programme fosters a sense of environmental stewardship and prepares students for careers in marine biology.

“Navigators helps young people to be able to connect the dots when it comes to career paths associated with the environment,” said Environment & Housing Minister Kenred Dorsett at a recent press conference.

Mr Dorsett, the MP for Southern Shores, is the sponsor for the Navigators programme at the school.

“This programme is important for Anatol Rodgers Secondary School because the Bonefish National Pond, an amazing mangrove-based asset on New Providence, is literally at the back door of this institution. It will help students to learn more about the significance of our ecosystems and, more importantly, chart a path for them to consider tertiary-level education that focuses on the environment and conservation and possibly a career path in the sector,” he added.

Eric Carey, executive director of the Bahamas National Trust, thanked Mr Dorsett and Myrtle McPhee, principal at Anatol Rodgers, for forging this “important partnership” with his organisation.

Their support and enthusiasm, he added, allows the BNT to fulfil the goal of its Navigators programme.

“We commit to making sure that we deliver the highest quality programme . . .to make sure that, at the end of the three years, these students who are involved in this programme will leave with not only an awareness of the environment but also an awareness of the opportunities available to them to have careers in the marine environment,” said Mr Carey.

Elijah Sands, one of 30 Navigators at the school, believes that this programme is preparing him for future goals.

“I think that the Bahamas National Trust is doing a very good job with conducting the programme. I’ve always enjoyed the club and enjoyed dealing with nature, organisms, and especially marine sciences,” he said.

“I’ve always wanted to aspire to be a marine biologist and I think that this club will be the best way, an early step to having a career in marine biology.”