The Minister of Energy and Transport the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the Department of Meteorology is vital to the Bahamian people as it touches every facet of their lives.
“Accurate weather predictions help individuals plan their day — from choosing appropriate clothing to deciding whether to carry an umbrella. These forecasts are not merely about convenience; they are essential for safety,” the Energy Minister said during the Future of Weather and Climate Across Generations event held at The British Colonial Hotel on Monday, July 21, 2025.
She said, “For instance, farmers rely on weather forecasts to determine the best times for planting and harvesting their crops, which can significantly affect agricultural yield and food supply.
“Similarly, weather forecasts are indispensable for mariners and aviators. Accurate predictions prevent accidents and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. In turn, this reliability strengthens the transportation sector and supports the movement of goods and people, which are vital for the economy.”
The purpose of the event was to highlight officers of the Meteorology Department who recently completed technical and professional development certifications, share with members of the media and public the unprecedented recruitment of 12 officers to strengthen the work of the Department, introduce the 2025 cadets of the Meteorology Cadet Programme, and in conjunction with the Bahamas Aviation, Climate and Severe Weather Network (BACSWN) to announce tertiary scholarship opportunities for young Bahamians.
The Energy Minister said, “From the meteorologist, to the climatologist, to the meteorological observer, to the forecaster, to the radar technician, to the electrical technician, and to the researcher studying climate patterns, these individuals play a critical role in helping us prepare for and respond to the ever-changing weather. Indeed, the role and responsibilities of the workers in the Department of Meteorology is far more complex and demanding than many of us realize.”
She explained that to work in the Department requires a deep understanding of atmospheric science, mathematics, and computer modeling, as well as the ability to communicate complex information in a clear and concise manner.
The Energy Minister noted that the establishment of the Niccolo P. Small Meteorology Cadet Programme is a fulfillment of the Government’s pledge to create national programmes that tackle threats to the wellbeing of young people.
She said it is no secret that climate change is leading to more extreme weather and climate events such as longer and more intense heatwaves, heavier rainfall, and severe hurricanes.
The Minister said, “Our vulnerability to the adverse impacts of weather events is increasing in many areas. It is a fact that our islands are low-lying, and that many Bahamians live near the sea.
“By investing in the Niccolo P. Small Meteorology Cadet Programme, the Government of The Bahamas is giving young Bahamians an opportunity to become meteorological scientists.”
She said to date over 30 cadets have participated in the Programme and in this – the third edition, there are 15 cadets — all young Bahamians.
Group Financial Advisor, BACSWN, Michael Strachan said the Network is giving ten $25,000 scholarships to qualified applicants to pursue their tertiary education in the atmospheric sciences at Metropolitan State University in Colorado and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research in Boulder Colorado.
Mr. Strachan said, “This $250,000 round of scholarships is just the beginning, through agreements and partnerships with the Bahamas Baptist University College and University of The Bahamas, BACSWN will be assisting in providing local training courses, STEM programmes and continued professional development programmes to be offered locally in conjunction with the Metropolitan State University to allow for more access to educational and training opportunities for those that are interested in pursuing careers in this field.”
By Llonella Gilbert/Bahamas Information Services
