At Government House last Wednesday (23 June), a number of companies and persons who contributed financial support and time to the Junior Achievement programmes, were recognised for their efforts.
Certificates of appreciation were presented at the ceremony hosted by His Excellency the Governor Mr. Duncan Taylor, CBE. He congratulated the recipients for introducing young people to entrepreneurial concepts and practical skills. Mr. Taylor added that he was particularly happy to support a programme that prepares youngsters for business involvement as a way of generating income for themselves and revenue for the country.
“Business operations and entrepreneurship will be key to economic growth in the Cayman Islands over the coming years. It is therefore most commendable that young people are being taught the key principles of entrepreneurship,” the Governor said.
Junior Achievement is a not-for-profit association that is funded by the business community and governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. It comprises representatives appointed by Rotary Central, the Chamber of Commerce and elected associate members.
The JA Company Programme encompasses a business, entrepreneurship and economic curriculum for high school students ages 15-18. Emphasis is placed on business content, while providing a strong focus on social studies, mathematics and reading and writing skills.
Each year, students set up a team to function as a company and using innovative thinking and business principles, they conceive, develop and market real products that are used for revenue generation. The students are supported by a corps of expert advisors who guide them through the stages of the simulated company’s operations.
Junior Achievement President Pat Randall thanked the participants for investing their time and financial resources, as well as for nurturing Cayman’s youth. "Companies and advisors provided more than two hours of guidance weekly, for 18 weeks. I am thankful to all,” he said. He also thanked the Governor for hosting the event.
Presentations were made to platinum sponsor Dart Foundation, and other financial sponsors Caribbean Publishing Company; First Caribbean International Bank; Tropical Shipping/Thompson Line; Crusaders International Management (Cayman) Limited; Cayman National Bank; Walkers; Maples and Calder; Water Authority; Ernst and Young, and Dr. Elaine Campbell. Other presentations were made to advisors from Dart Enterprises Limited; Butterfield Bank; Citco Fund Services (Cayman Islands) Limited; Caribbean Publishing Company Limited; dms Organisation Ltd; Crusader International (Cayman) Ltd; First Caribbean Bank International; McCormick Global Ingredients Ltd; PricewaterhouseCoopers; Royal Bank of Canada; Rotary Club of Grand Cayman Sunrise; Rotary Club of Cayman Brac, and Cayman National Bank (Cayman Brac).
