Twenty-two young men and women enrolled with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) have grasped the opportunity to pursue mathematics at examination level as a result of a collaborative effort between the CCC and energy company bpTT.
Drawn from communities representing all of the CCC regions across Trinidad, the students graduated recently from an intensive two-week training course, which covered a comprehensive review of the fundamentals of mathematics.
They all received Certificates of Achievement at a function held at the CCC Headquarters in Beetham, Port-of-Spain.
"This workshop has succeeded in helping me to get rid of my fear of Mathematics. Our tutor made it interesting and rather exciting for us to learn the subject.
I know that math is very important in my education and I intend to excel when I sit the examinations. Don't be surprised if you see us in high positions in the society in the future," said a confident Andrel Crawford, speaking on behalf of the students.
Now in its fifth year, the bpTT Adult Mathematics Experience is open to mature students who want to continue their studies in the subject.
The math initiative was developed to de-mystify the daunting realities had of the subject. The classes at Port-of-Spain were conducted by Nicole Lord, tutor with training agency Cross & Associates.
"Our hope is that this new approach to mathematics and the passion which was aroused during this course will bear fruit for these young people as they continue to improve their potential. Math is a fundamental requirement in pursuing education at any level," said Joel Francis, Community Sustainability and Stakeholder relations Adviser, bpTT.
Education is one of the main pillars of bpTT's investment in national building and the company has pledged its continuing support for the initiative. Programme Director of the CCC, Major Cheryl Richardson, showered praise on bpTT for "once again coming on board with the CCC to assist the organisation in its task of developing our young people.
Major Richardson urged the graduates: "At the CCC we believe in celebrating every success and today represents another milestone for us.
This is not the end of the road for you. It is the beginning of a new path in your life. Make use of it and make something of this opportunity."