The United World Colleges (UWC) Cayman Islands National Committee first launched a ‘short programme’ in August 2015, providing local teens the opportunity to engage with the global educational movement’s mission to make education a force for peace and a sustainable future. This summer, the four-day, three-night summer camp will take place 3-6 August at the Wyndham Reef Resort in East End.

Toward a Sustainable Future aims to educate, equip and empower participants to make positive changes in their personal lives, homes and communities by exploring various aspects of sustainability, with a particular focus on the natural environment. As participants learn more about topics such as the marine environment, food security and energy, local experts will provide local and global perspectives on the issues as well as concrete examples of what young people can do today to have a positive impact. Activities and field trips will provide opportunities for hands-on learning and unique experiences.

To apply to be a participant, students must be resident in the Cayman Islands, aged 14-16 at the time of the course, and passionate about sustainability and making a positive difference in their communities. Spaces are very limited and applications will be due on Wednesday, 5th July 2017.

The first organisations to confirm sponsorship of the programme are platinum sponsor Ministry of Education, gold sponsor Appleby, silver sponsor Rotary Central, and bronze sponsors Cayman National Bank, Water Authority Cayman and Consolidated Water. Corporate and other community support allows tuition fees to be highly subsidised, and scholarships are also available to maximise participant diversity. Additional contributions from sponsors will fund the charitable foundation’s scholarship programme for Caymanian scholars at two-year UWC colleges around the world.

A variety of short programmes are hosted each summer by some of the 156 national committees and 17 colleges that are part of the UWC movement. Focusing on specific UWC values such as leadership, international understanding and sustainability, these initiatives seek to expose more young people to the common mission and make a positive difference throughout the world.

Companies and individuals are encouraged to email [email protected] for more information, including how to apply to be a participant and the various sponsorship opportunities and benefits.