TAMCC December 2023 Newsletter

DECEMBER 2023

VOLUME 4

T. A. MARRYSHOW COMMUNITY COLLEGE

NEWSLETTER

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Marryshow Day 2023 Graduation 2023 TAMCC/NTRC Telecommunications Project

Marryshow Day 2023 Reflecting on the Ideals of T. A. Marryshow as we Journey to 50 Years

TAMCC Launches Partnership with Brazen Group LLC On Wednesday October 18, 2023, the T. A, Marryshow Community College established a partnership with Brazen Group LLC, a technology and innovation company, through the signing of an agreement .

The signing marks the agreement made between both parties to provide opportunities to the students and faculty of the College through training opportunities and technological support.

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DECEMBER NEWSLETTER

SNEAK PEEK TAMCC Launches Partnership with Brazen Group LLC NTRC Hybrid Telecommunications Upgrade Project TAMCC Welcomes New Interim Deputy Principal Financial Literacy Academy Closing Ceremony Graduation 2023 Marryshow Day 2023 TAMCC Robotics Club Places 35th in Global Robotics Competition

“Set your aims high no matter how poor you may be. You can acheive great things if you set an object in view and fight to reach it. ” —Theophilus Albert Marryshow

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

TAMCC Launches Partnership with Brazen Group LLC

Through this partnership, Brazen Group LLC will provide 10 full tuition scholarships to students in the Information Technology field, three month paid internships, six month paid apprenticeships and priority consideration to alumni for employment opportunities.

“This is an opportunity for our students to really become global citizens and gain employment that could make them live and enjoy a quality of life that we all aspire to” said Chair of the College Council, Dr. Wendy Grenade, who was instrumental in spearheading the partnership, while expressing her anticipation for the collaboration’s impact on the lives of TAMCC students.

Dr. Ronald Brunton, Principal of TAMCC, described the signing as a transformative partnership which underscores the College’s commitment to equipping its students with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in an evolving landscape. He said, “This partnership is expected to enable

TAMCC to transform our students into tech-savvy entrepreneurs, innovators, leaders, the gamechangers that will shape the future of Grenada and beyond.

What we are doing here with the Brazen Group goes beyond an alliance; it’s about breaking boundaries and creating a world of opportunities.

It’s about turning students into technology leaders and tech giants.”

As a recent graduate from TAMCC, having received an associate degree in Information Technology in 2020, Mr. Rueben Lambert, Regional Delivery Manager of Brazen Group LLC shared his excitement at the opportunity to provide practical support and real-world experience for the students of the College. He said, “Education is the foundation upon which dreams are built and we believe in supporting those dreams. This partnership is a testament that our collective efforts can shape a brighter future for all.”

TAMCC extends thanks Brazen Group LLC for the company’s commitment to education and technology, and looks forward to this new chapter for the College.

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

Hybrid Telecommunications Upgrade NTRC Project The Hybrid Telecommunications Upgrade Project will enable the College to increase it’s reach by targeting students who may be unable to attend physical classes. The Management of the College held meetings with Students and Faculty to discuss various aspects related to the installation of video cameras in 20 classrooms across the College campuses.

The management understands the importance of transparency and wishes to assure the TAMCC Community of their commitment to sharing relevant information while recognising the need to maintain security protocols to prevent any compromise of the installed equipment.

Important Dates for the Holidays December 15 Final Day of Examinations December 22 All offices of the College will be closed for the Yuletide season January 2 All offices will reopen January 8 Classes resume for the second semester

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

TAMCC Welcomes New Interim Deputy Principal Dr. John N. Telesford started his career 40 years ago as a teacher. He taught at the St. Andrew’s Methodist School (SAMS) and at the St. Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School (SAASS), where he headed the Science, Mathematics and Technology Department. He was also a part-time tutor with the UWI Center in Grenada and the T. A. Marryshow Community College. His career also included working at the management level in the private sector. He currently works as a part-time consultant on Sustainability, Environment and Energy. In addition to his current lectureship at TAMCC, he serves as an Adjunct Faculty with the UWI Global Campus and has also worked as an adjunct Graduate Supervisor at the University of Waterloo, Canada. He is also appointed as a Research Associate with the Institute for Island Studies, University of Prince Edward Island, Canada.

He has published a number of papers in high impact journals and as book chapters and has edited two-full books. He has reviewed several manuscripts and serves on the editorial board and as editor for academic journals. He continues to present his work at local, regional and international conferences and meetings. He also works with a global team of researchers in the Metabolism of Islands network, the Islands Platform for Resources, Ecology and Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Island Futures Project (completed). His research focuses on the sustainable development of islands, with various strands including climate mitigation and adaption, sustainable energy, the implementation of the sustainable development goals and education for sustainable development, especially STEM based TVET. He has a passion for TVET and considers himself a ‘pracademic’- where practice meets academia.

He serves on the Curriculum Committee and the Academic Board of the TAMCC. He also led the development of four new programs at the College, including the Environmental Sustainability Practices and Environmental Technology programs, which were developed in partnerships with four Canadian Colleges. Additionally, and with a grant from the Global Environment Fund, Small Grants Program, a degree in Sustainable Community Development Practices for Civil Society Organizations, was developed and launched. The fourth program, with a specialization in Agriculture Extension, was designed and launched with generous funds from the Food and Agriculture Organization and spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Guided by his self-made overarching vision for the College- teaching, learning and research for transformation and development- he is looking forward to continue to serve the students, faculty and staff of TAMCC and the wider student body and people of Grenada and the region.

Dr. Telesford obtained degrees in Environmental Control Technology (New York City College of Technology, City Tech), Building Services Engineering Management (Brunel University, London, UK) and a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) (The Robert Gordon University (RGU), Scotland, UK). He also has a Diploma in Management (UWI) and Post Graduate Certificate in Research Methods (RGU). He obtained professional qualifications in Integrated Environmental Management at the University of Bath and was an Associate Member of the Institute for Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

Carpentry Apprenticeship Certification Ceremony

On Wednesday December 13 eight young men graduated from the first ever carpentry apprenticeship programme in Grenada. The pilot programme was a collaboration between the T. A. Marryshow Community College, the Grenada National Training Agency (GNTA), Skills to Access the Green Economy (SAGE), the Canadian Government and Creative Design.

Participants gained a CVQ Level 2 qualification and are all currently employed within the construction industry , seven employed with Creative Design, and gaining above entry-level salaries.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Dr. John Telesford, Interim Deputy Principal of TAMCC, said. “ It is heartwarming to stand before eight young men who have provided us with the evidence that apprenticeship is possible in Grenada.” He shared that the College will continue to play its part in future apprenticeship programmes and educating the young people of Grenada.

Coordinator for Training Support at the National Training Agency, Mrs. Marlene Abraham-Finlay, urged the participants to continue their training. She said, ”I challenge each graduate to keep learning to maintain your relevance even as the world changes around us. Pay it forward by positively impacting the people around you.”

Dr. Anslem LaTouche, President of Creative Design, the construction company which trained programme’s participants and guided them through the apprenticeship shared that his company is willing to continue its participation in the programme in the future.

The ceremony served as a testament of the immense potential of vocational education in addressing the needs of the construction industry and highlights the vital role of carpenters in Grenada's infrastructure, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals who will contribute to the nation's growth.

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

Financial Literacy Academy Closing Ceremony

On Monday November 6, 2023 the T. A Marryshow Community College in partnership with Republic Bank Grenada Ltd. held the Closing Ceremony of the first ever Financial Literacy Academy on Thursday November 2, 2023 at the College.

The Academy, aimed at empowering individuals with essential financial knowledge and skills, has equipped 25 participants, inclusive of staff and students at the College, with the tools necessary to make informed financial decisions and achieve long-term financial stability.

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in a series of interactive sessions designed to enhance their understanding of personal finance, budgeting, investing and wealth management. The Financial Literacy Academy fostered an environment of collaboration and learning, enabling participants to develop a solid foundation in financial literacy.

Coordinator of Resource Mobilisation at the College, Ayanna Williams, was instrumental to the planning and launch of the programme. “The ramifications of this endeavour are profound. For our graduands it entails a future with increased safeguards against financial ambiguity and increased confidence and capacity to make decisions that can affect the long-term quality of their lives and those of their families.”

Principal, Dr. Ronald Brunton, commended those who coordinated and facilitated the financial sessions.

“The purpose of the programme was not only to educate individuals in isolation but also fostering a lifelong learning opportunity and equipping participants with the crosscutting competencies that can improve their financial well-being, their decision making process and advising others in their communities.

The graduates today have taken a step toward becoming more self-sufficient and financially stable, a major outcome of our programme.”

The closing ceremony marked the culmination of an intensive and comprehensive program that spanned nine weeks of financial sessions. The event brought together participants, facilitators and stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of the graduates.

TAMCC remains committed to promoting financial literacy and empowering individuals to take control of their financial well-being. The academy’s closing ceremony serves as a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide accessible and comprehensive financial education to individuals from all walks of life.

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Highlights from Graduation 2023 The 2023 Graduation Ceremony was held on Thursday October 26, 2023 at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium where 460 graduands were conferred into graduates of the T. A. Marryshow Community College.

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Highlights from Graduation 2023

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TAMCC Robotics Club Places 35th in Global Robotics Competition

The T. A. Marryshow Community College's Robotics Club placed 35th out of 191 countries, second for the Caribbean, in the recent First Global Challenge held in Singapore. The team achieved this despite only two of the five team members being able to compete following an unexpected quarantine.

The team also received a gold medal for courageous achievement and the outstanding social media award.

TAMCC extends a heartfelt congratulations to our students who have demonstrated excellence and perseverance despite the odds.

TAMCC Students Place Second in National Science Fair

A team of Natural Sciences students from the T. A. Marryshow Community College designed and built an aquaponics system with the use of solar energy technology which was displayed at the Ministry of Education's Science Fair recently held at the Grenada Trade Center.

The Aquaponics system involved the combination of aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (soil-less plant cultivation). The system design and build the electrical component using a solar

panel that charges the battery via charge controller, and the battery is used to supply power to the rest of the system components such as water pump and aerator. The system had basil herbs and lettuce as the plants and small tilapia fish.

The team consisted of Jacob Alexis, Zuriel Roberts and Tyrel McMillan. They were assisted by Eva and Emma Chouk. The project placed second among the tertiary category and the students were awarded a trophy and a pair of computer speakers.

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Marryshow Day 2023 Marryshow Day 2023 was observed on Tuesday November 7, 2023, the birthday of the College’s namesake Theophilus Albert Marryshow.

This year’s celebrations were held under the theme: Reflecting on the Ideals of T. A. Marryshow as we Journey to 50 Years.

The week of activities began with a prayer service and radio programme on Monday. On Tuesday, the College held a panel discussion and road race.

Wednesday included the opening of an art exhibition, a debate competition, the Dean’s List Award Ceremony and an extra-curricular concert.

Thursday included the Annual Health Fair and the Mirabeau Campus visited Tanteen to conduct a produce sale. The week ended with a BBQ Fund raiser.

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Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

Environmental Technology Students Partner with Canada’s Marine Institute

The students of the Environmental Technology Programme at the T. A. Marryshow Community College had the opportunity to partner with students from the Marine Institute of Canada to conduct research at the La Sagesse Beach, St. David.

The students of the programme at the College have been studying and documenting the area for the past three years and conducting sampling exercises

to understand patterns of wildlife, pollution and changes in the landscape with the intention of educating students about how environmental sciences can mitigate challenges that may occur both naturally and by man.

The students of the programme will continue to do field research in the area and other selected areas throughout the island which can one day be utilised to make important environmental decisions for Grenada.

Chess Club Tournament

The TAMCC Chess Club (TCC) held a tournament from December 4-8 2023, in which 22 enthusiasts took part in rapid ten minute games.

Participation in the tournament was affected by exam preparations, other cocurricular activities and other student engagements. 37 out of 50 scheduled matches were played. Each match consisted of two games. One point for a win; ½ point for a draw, 0 point for a loss.

The 22 players were allotted into 4 groups; Group A B C & D. Players played each other within the groups and a winner emerged.

Winners of groups B & D and winners of groups A & C played-off in the semifinals, and the winners of each of these played the finals.

After one week of intensive focused games, Renniel Gilbert, a Social Sciences student, emerged the Champion. Jonathan Cato was the runner-up.

The Chess Tournament Award Ceremony will take place in January 2024.

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Tourism and Hospitality Department Hosts Successful Bake Sales The Tourism and Hospitality Department hosted successful bake sales on October 31 and November 21 Students presented baked goods in groups based off themes and a variety of flavours such as chocolate, coconut, cinnamon, orange etc.

The Bake Sales were extremely successful and we look forward to supporting our culinary students in their future initiatives.

Newsletter Vol. 04 December, 2023

TAMCC Facilitates Symposium with Chinese Delegation

The T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) warmly welcomed a distinguished delegation from Ningbo Municipality.

The collaborative symposium, held at the Hospitality Hall and co-hosted by TAMCC and the Confucius Institute, aimed to foster meaningful discussions on key subjects. The symposium focused on three pivotal areas: • Exchange and Cooperation in Chinese Vocational Skills Education • Faculty/Students Exchange • Marine Economy and Scientific Research

Distinguished leaders from TAMCC's various campuses were present, engaged in constructive dialogue throughout the event.

The atmosphere was marked by enthusiasm and a shared commitment to enhancing collaboration between Ningbo and TAMCC. The discussions yielded fruitful outcomes, paving the way for future endeavors in education, research, and cultural exchange.

This symposium serves as a testament to the commitment of TAMCC and Ningbo in maintaining lasting partnerships for the benefit of students, faculty and the broader community.

TAMCC Receives Laptop Donation from the Confucius Institute

On Wednesday September 13, the Confucius Institute donated 40 new Dell laptops to the faculty of the School of Arts, Science and Professional Studies (SASPS) as part of an initiative to enhance their technological capabilities for work inside and outside the College.

The donation was accepted by Principal of the College, Dr. Ronald

Brunton who was joined by Mr. Kenrick McSween, Dean of Arts, Sciences, and Professional Studies, and Department Chairs: Miss Andrea Mc Leod (Arts and Humanities), Miss Besha Ottley (Business Studies), and Miss Antonia Cadore (Social Sciences).

TAMCC extends gratitude to the Confucius Institute for this donation to the faculty and looks forward to continued partnerships in the future.

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TAMCC Hosts a Series of Consultations for the Development of the Mirabeau Campus

The T. A. Marryshow Community College hosted a series of consultations aimed at receiving valuable insights from stakeholders to aid in the upgrade of the operations at the Mirabeau Campus. The College welcomed Ms. Maureen Moore, Agribusiness Advisor under the Canada CARICOM Expert Deployment Mechanism funded project who traveled to Grenada to conduct an in-person assessment of the Campus and lead the consultations.

Through these consultations, TAMCC sought to create an inclusive environment where stakeholders could actively contribute their perspectives and ideas.

The College believes that by involving students, faculty, alumni and community partners, it can positively enhance its agrobusiness operations. The consultations spanned a range of topics, from crop and livestock production to ways in which the campus can create and improve relationships with businesses and Organisations within Grenada’s Agricultural Sector.

The Consultations began on Thursday June 29, with a consultation held with vendors and stakeholders. A second was held with faculty, staff and past and current students.

The second round of consultations were

held on Friday July 30 with a consultation with GIDC, GDB, hoteliers, farmers associations and eco-tour operators.

The final two consultations were held on Wednesday July 5 with the Ministry of Agriculture & lands, Fisheries & Cooperatives and the Ministry of Education.

The Consultations were met with enthusiasm from the stakeholders who were eager to contribute their expertise.

Following these consultations, the College plans to implement several exciting initiatives that align with the needs expressed by the stakeholders. These include strengthened partnerships with local businesses and organisations and the application of innovative agricultural processes throughout Grenada which will solidify the Campus’ place as a major stakeholder in Grenada’s Agriculture Sector.

TAMCC is thankful to all participants who dedicated their time to these consultations. The College is committed to maintaining an ongoing dialogue with its stakeholders as it seeks to shape the future of the Campus and continue to offer a wide range of programmes and services that prepare our students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.

As the joyous season of Christmas approaches, we wanted to take a moment to extend warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to each and every one of you in our wonderful community. It has been an eventful year filled with hard work, dedication, and resilience, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible strength and spirit displayed by our community.

During this Christmas holiday, we hope you take the time to celebrate and cherish the moments spent with loved ones, whether physically present or through virtual connections. It is a time to relax, rejuvenate, and gather strength for the journey that lies ahead, for we all know that the upcoming year holds immense potential and possibilities.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!