The premiere of the Cayman Islands intends to establish a tourism and local hospitality school early in 2012, in order to encourage more Caymanians into this growing sector.
McKeeva Bush thinks the country needs to take a long-term view of tourism, and should be looking to train more local people for jobs in the industry. Research shows visitors to the islands are looking to have a more authentic local experience, and are willing to pay for this if the Cayman Islands can deliver it.
He feels more Caymanians should be able to benefit from tourism, so the tourism ministry will be joining forces with the University College of the Cayman Islands to provide training at an international certification level for those interested in careers in tourism.
The aim of the school is to provide a well-trained local labour force, as this will help local people directly benefit from tourism while enhancing the cultural flavour for visitors. It's expected that the school will deliver a world-class workforce, and during the first phase will offer City and Guilds certification and associate degree programs.
The tourism school will form links with well-known institutions such as Cornell University and other affiliated universities. The second phase will offer further certification and degree programs which will include City and Guilds certification courses and bachelor degree programs with Cornell University and the Culinary Institute of America as well as other well-known institutions.
The school is also expected to eventually accept international students. Having a local workforce which has been trained to world-class standards should greatly enhance the Cayman Islands already considerable appeal.
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