Shipping industry professionals are caught in deep concentration as they participate in Spanish classes conducted by Stephanie Anderson (standing) of the Venezuelan Institute. - CONTRIBUTED
JAMAICA'S SHIPPING industry is taking up the challenge of globalisation by promoting multilingual skills among its stakeholders.
More than 50 industry professionals are currently enrolled in Spanish classes conducted by the Venezuelan Institute with twice-weekly classes being held over a 12-week period at the offices of the Shipping Association of Jamaica.
Commenting on the multilingual initiative, SAJ President Michael Bernard said: "Shipping is an international industry that requires constant interaction and communication among persons who speak different languages. In this scenario, multilingual skills can give Jamaica's maritime sector a competitive advantage as we position the Port of Kingston as the trade hub of the Western Hemisphere."
FOUNDING MEMBER
Noting that Jamaica is a founding member of the Caribbean Shipping Association that includes many Spanish-speaking countries, the SAJ president said: "Multilingual skills will help ensure that our voice and our opinions are heard and taken into account when plans are being made and decisions taken that affect our local industry."
The SAJ is also planning to offer courses in languages other than Spanish for its members and partners.
JAMAICA'S SHIPPING industry is taking up the challenge of globalisation by promoting multilingual skills among its stakeholders.
More than 50 industry professionals are currently enrolled in Spanish classes conducted by the Venezuelan Institute with twice-weekly classes being held over a 12-week period at the offices of the Shipping Association of Jamaica.
Commenting on the multilingual initiative, SAJ President Michael Bernard said: "Shipping is an international industry that requires constant interaction and communication among persons who speak different languages. In this scenario, multilingual skills can give Jamaica's maritime sector a competitive advantage as we position the Port of Kingston as the trade hub of the Western Hemisphere."
FOUNDING MEMBER
Noting that Jamaica is a founding member of the Caribbean Shipping Association that includes many Spanish-speaking countries, the SAJ president said: "Multilingual skills will help ensure that our voice and our opinions are heard and taken into account when plans are being made and decisions taken that affect our local industry."
The SAJ is also planning to offer courses in languages other than Spanish for its members and partners.
