Twenty International College of the Cayman Islands’ students earned Pride certificates after completing the “Know Your Cayman Islands” training sessions. The Pride workshop was part of an academic seminar course on the history and heritage of the Cayman Islands.

“I feel that it is important for not only college students to learn about Cayman’s history, but also students from the primary schools all the way to tertiary level. It is an exceptional seminar, Caymanian or not. Being Caymanian, there was a lot of history and recent events that I was not aware of, but was happy to learn about,” said Human and Social Services major Kristie Archer.

Students spent weeks completing readings, presentations, and making visits to important historical and cultural sites like Light House Park, The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, The Legislative Assembly, and the National Museum. Customer Service Standards Training Officer for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism Janet Holness taught the seminar as well as conducted the Pride Workshops. “It is very important for college students to do this workshop to have a better understanding of the Cayman Islands History, Heritage and Culture. Every student can be an ambassador of the Cayman Islands,” said Holness.

The Cayman Islands Seminar is part of new curriculum changes designed to help enhance the competitiveness and work place value of ICCI graduates. Two years ago, the ICCI Board of Trustees approved a new policy requiring all ICCI students to complete a seminar on Cayman history and culture in order to earn a degree. Even though the new policy will not be fully enforced until September, 60 students have voluntarily completed the seminar course and also earned the Know Your Cayman Islands Pride certificates.

“For us, this is not just about history, heritage, and national pride, this requirement is also about producing graduates who are able to help the country succeed. How can you attract new business or become an entrepreneur in the Cayman Islands if you don’t understand the culture in which you are operating?” said ICCI President Dr. David Marshall. “The reality is anyone who lives and works in Cayman is a tourism ambassador, regardless of your industry. Making sure that our students understand this is an essential part of their ICCI education,” said Marshall.

“I was amazed at how much information I never knew about my islands,” said Helen Winton who is working on a degree in Business. We had a fantastic teacher, and the general information gained from the seminar has really changed my life. I took so many things for granted. I now have a greater appreciation for our culture and heritage. I’m definitely putting this experience on my resume,” said Winton.

Founded in 1970, the International College of the Cayman Islands the Birthplace of Tertiary Education in the Cayman Islands. The College is institutionally accredited by the U.S. based Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. ICCI has held this accreditation since 1979.

The International College of the Cayman Islands has been awarded the status of Candidate for Accreditation by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) located at 11374 Strang Line Road in Lenexa, Kansas. In granting candidacy status, the Board of Commissioners has determined that the International College of the Cayman Islands has developed an appropriate quality management system; has satisfied candidacy requirements relating to its business programs, resources, and operational processes; and is eligible to undergo an accreditation review.

The mission of the International College of the Cayman Islands is to prepare students for career placement and enhancement. The ICCI education instills attitudes, behaviors, sensitivities, skills and knowledge that are essential to life and learning.

IMAGES: David Marshall