The Tribune

THE web shop industry yesterday said its 2018 civic and charitable contributions will exceed legal requirements by $3 million.

The Bahamas Gaming Operators Association (BGOA), in a statement, said it was ‘doubling down’ on its commitment with a collective $7.1 million pledge

Gershan A. Major, the Association’s chief executive, said its 2018 budget and annual operating plan had made provision to go beyond the $4.1 million contribution to civic and corporate responsibility that is mandated by law.

He said: “I am so pleased that the Board of Directors have agreed to increase the Association’s commitment for 2018 to ensure we are able to effectively fulfill our broader community building mandate in meeting our civic and corporate responsibility.”

The Association said it plans to focus on education, culture, sports, wellness, technology innovation and entrepreneurship. It will also promote the awareness and education related to responsible gaming.

And ‘Adopt a School Programme’ will also be launched, offering scholarships to the best and brightest students, starting at the primary achool level. The Association said it will also invest in creating community centres throughout the Bahamas, and promote wellness in lifestyle and health management to tackle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

The technology and innovation drive will focus on maths and science, app development and coding in partnership with educational institutions and other corporate partners.

Mr Major said: “We believe in nation building, which in the words of the former Governor-General, Sir Arthur Foulkes, is about the building of a people.”