SJPP celebrates 48th anniversary

The Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic (SJPP) can truly boast of being the leader in the preparation of a highly trained workforce, forty-eight years after first opening its doors.

SJPP Principal Hector Belle made the assertion, as he spoke during the educational institution’s 48th Anniversary Service held yesterday in the SJPP’s auditorium, under the theme “Reconceptualising SJPP – God’s Plan”.

“This week, we are celebrating the 48th anniversary of the SJPP, which coincides with the birthday of the Right Excellent Samuel Jackman Prescod,” Belle commented.

“SJPP is a post-independence institution, established in September 1969…now forty-eight years later, we can truly boast of being the leader in the preparation of a highly trained workforce. But these occasions are a reminder of where we came from, where we are and where we have to be, to be truly described as an institute of excellence,” he added.

“I hope this week will be not only one of celebration, but one and of reflection, on how we can leverage our collaboration (between) staff and students, to continue to contribute to the building of the nation,” he further stated.

SJPP Registrar Hyacinth Collymore meanwhile gave an outline of the Week of Activities to be held, to celebrate the 48th anniversary.

“Today, we have decided to bring our annual celebration service here to the campus. We usually go off campus, but we thought it fitting to come to the campus, so that we can all join together as students and staff and give honour and glory to God,” she said of yesterday’s service, which focused on offering up prayers and blessings for the members of the board, senior management, staff and students alike.

Pointing to other activities to be held in the auditorium of the Polytechnic, Collymore noted that today, Tuesday, the Human Ecology Division will outline to the public what occurs in that Division. Great focus will be placed on the areas of cosmetology, esthetics and nursing and how students are trained for the world of work.

On Wednesday, the Automotive Division will shine the light on its marine diesel and maritime programmes, which have IMO certification and which are highly sought after.

On Thursday at 7:00 p.m., the annual SJPP memorial Lecture will be held, coupled with an Alumni Launch. A Wall of Fame will also be launched that night, featuring some of SJPP’s more successful students, to serve as motivation and encouragement for present students.

On Friday, a panel discussion entitled, “Big Men: Real Talk” will be held from 10: 00 a.m., strictly for SJPP males.

“We are hoping to get them to rise up and to know that they are significant and to make a significant difference in Barbados”, the Registrar said of this final event.