The Tribune

The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has unveiled a paid remote internship initiative to build skills and careers for Bahamians in industries such as cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI) and data science.

Freeport’s quasi-governmental authority, in a statement, announced the launch of Tech Edge 2.0 in a bid to link eligible Bahamians living both locally and abroad with technology-driven industries including mobile app development. GBPA executives said the move will also help to position Grand Bahama as a digital hub, while also providing Bahamians with experience in high-demand technology fields.

“Tech Edge 2.0 is more than an internship programme; it is a pipeline to professional success,” said Derek Newbold, chief investment officer for the GBPA and Invest Grand Bahama.

“With nearly 200 Bahamians already registered, including Bahamians residing in Canada, the US, the UK and across the islands of The Bahamas, this programme is bridging the gap between education and employment, equipping participants with job-ready skills and fostering a new generation of innovators ready to contribute to the advancement of technology and innovation in The Bahamas.”

There are currently ten internship placements available, with additional spaces being added as more companies join. The GBPA, through its Tech Edge 2.0 programme, has partnered with four international technology firms, including Prophaze (California, US), Cognetik Labs, Cybermindr and Digital5 Solutions, to provide paid remote internship training and employment opportunities.

All are start-up and emerging companies in cyber security, API security and AI-driven threat detection fields. They also cover software development, IT infrastructure and cloud computing.

Ian Rolle, the GBPA’s president, said: “These partnerships are unlocking global opportunities for Bahamians and proving that Grand Bahama is serious about technology. Further, it offers Bahamians direct access to the international job market without having to leave home. This programme is about ensuring that our people are equipped with top-tier training to develop the requisite skills and career pathways to thrive in the digital economy.”

The Tech Edge 2.0 Internship Programme is open to Bahamians worldwide who hold a college degree or are currently pursuing one in a technology-related field. They must also have a strong interest in cyber security, AI, mobile app development, data science or IT infrastructure, and be eager to gain real world experience and work remotely with cutting-edge technology companies.

Applications for Tech Edge 2.0 will close on March 21, 2025. Interested candidates can apply online at www.techedgebahamas.com, where they will find step-by-step guidance on the application process.

Jecholiah Braynen, the GBPA’s project co-ordinator for Tech Edge 2.0, described the initiative as a long-term investment in The Bahamas’ technology workforce and economic growth. “Through our partnership with Quess Corp, a multinational business service provider, based in India, GBPA is building the requisite skills within the Bahamian workforce and equipping them with job-ready skills and experience,” she said.

“This programme creates opportunities to drive economic growth, establish new career opportunities and attract technology companies to The Bahamas by creating a sustainable ecosystem where Bahamians can thrive in the tech industry. This is just the beginning. As Tech Edge grows, so will the number of available opportunities.”