ATHLETES at the University of Technology (UTech) are set to start voice and speech training with the Creative Production and Training Centre (CPTC).

Telecommunications provider Digicel announced its sponsorship of a special training programme, in partnership with the Media Technology Institute of CPTC.

UTech's renowned sports programme has produced a number of recognised word-class athletes such as Usain Bolt, Sherone Simpson and Shericka Williams, who have all represented Jamaica with distinction.

The move is designed to empower the athletes to effectively handle public speaking with increased confidence.

The course will include instructions on presentation techniques, focusing on pronunciation and diction for use in media interviews, speeches and other fora.

Digicel's sponsorship will cover 100 per cent of the cost ($23,300) to each student athlete for the duration of the course and approximately 17 athletes will enrol in the first group.

Commitment

Commenting on the initiative, Yvonne Wilks, Digicel's head of marketing said: "Our association with this important programme is yet another avenue for Digicel to demonstrate its commitment to the development of sports in Jamaica and the region.

"We take special interest in the advancement of our talent and we want to ensure that our athletes are equipped with all the tools they need to be confident and articulate ambassadors."

Angela Patterson, CEO of CPTC noted: "This represents an achievement of something that we have long hoped to happen at the MTI and we are happy that Digicel has come on board.

"This programme is a plus for all of Jamaica, as we help improve the communication skills of our much-loved athletes and train a cadre of persons who can handle themselves well locally and internationally."

Each session of the programme will run for 10-12 weeks. Patterson indicated that the programme may be extended in the near future to include the participation of student athletes from other tertiary institutions across the island.