AS THE BAHAMAS CONTINUES to confront issues tied to food security, environmental sustainability and national capacity building, graduates of the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute are stepping into industries increasingly viewed as critical to the country’s future.
The message was underscored during BAMSI’s 2026 graduation exercises held May 8 at the college’s North Andros campus, where graduates were recognized across associate degree, national certification and professional training programmes tied to agriculture, marine science, environmental management, tourism and emerging industries.
“BAMSI’s impact can no longer be viewed through a narrow lens,” Dr. Raveenia Roberts-Hanna, president of BAMSI, said following the event. “The Institute has evolved into a multidisciplinary institution that is helping to shape the future capacity and educational landscape of The Bahamas.”
Graduates received Associate of Science degrees in Marine Science, Animal Science and Environmental Science, with Breann McIntosh and Jaron Sawyer recognized for achieving the highest grade point average in their major courses. Also among the graduates were 18 persons who completed the National Flats Fishing Certification programme, 12 who graduated from the Nature Tour Guide Certification programme and 41 participants who completed certificate training in Sustainable Land Management and Climate-Smart Agriculture.
The nationally recognized Flats Fishing and Nature Tour Guide certification programmes — described as the first of their kind globally — also reflected shifting participation within several industries, including a growing number of women entering fields traditionally dominated by men.
The continued expansion of certifications and academic initiatives reflects BAMSI’s growing role within the national tertiary education landscape and its efforts to align training opportunities with evolving national and industry demands.
“Over the years, BAMSI has intentionally cultivated partnerships, programmes and industry relationships that position our students not only for employment, but for leadership and relevance within an evolving global economy,” Dr. Roberts-Hanna said. “Our graduates are contributing not only within agriculture, marine science and environmental management, but across business, technology, tourism, entrepreneurship and other sectors essential to national development.”
She said the Institute remains focused on developing graduates who are equipped with both technical expertise and strong academic foundations.
“The Bahamas cannot afford to remain dependent on external expertise in areas that are directly tied to our sustainability, economic diversification and long-term national growth,” Dr. Roberts-Hanna said. “Institutions like BAMSI play a critical role in building national capacity by producing graduates who understand the unique opportunities and challenges facing this country.”
The graduation ceremony comes on the heels of the recent opening of BAMSI’s new student housing and academic complex in North Andros, a major expansion aimed at strengthening the Institute’s capacity and student experience.
“The momentum currently taking place at BAMSI is reflected not only in the expansion of our campus, but in the achievements of the students and professionals crossing this stage,” said Cerone Dean, Chairman of BAMSI. “These graduates represent the continued growth of an institution that is preparing Bahamians for industries critical to the country’s future.”
“The work taking place at BAMSI extends far beyond the classroom,” Mr. Dean said, “and is increasingly connected to the country’s economic and workforce needs.”
“These programmes are directly connected to national priorities — from strengthening food production and environmental stewardship to supporting sustainable tourism and national capacity building. The country needs graduates who are equipped with practical skills, technical competence and the ability to
contribute meaningfully within their industries.”
Among the highlights of the graduation ceremony was the recognition of several students for academic excellence, leadership and outstanding achievement within their respective programmes.
Jaron Sawyer, Associate of Science graduate in Animal Science, and Breann McIntosh, Associate of Science graduate in Marine Science, were both recognized for achieving the highest grade point average in their major courses.
Mr. Sawyer also received the award for Best Student Project, while Ms. McIntosh received the Award for Excellence in Marine Science and the Spirit of BAMSI Award. Sawyer and McIntosh were named co-valedictorians for the graduating class, while Jeremiah Young received the BTC Special Award. BAMSI officials also noted that applications for the Fall semester remain open as the Institute continues expanding its academic and professional training offerings.
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