Bermudians will be able to take a course in bartending run by a prestigious US university, through a remote learning platform.

The Bermuda Tourism Authority has teamed up with Florida International University and Bacardi USA to create the Future Proof programme, which is available on the BTA’s e-learning platform BTA+.

After completing the course, students will be awarded a Future Proof Bar Training Certificate of Completion from FIU’s Bacardi Centre of Excellence at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management in North Miami, Florida.

Tracy Berkeley, the chief executive officer of the BTA, said: “This collaboration will bring unprecedented benefits to our e-learning platform, BTA+, and elevate Bermuda's hospitality industry.

“I applaud our team's dedication to see this transformative initiative through.”

The programme was also backed by Brian Connors, Director of the Bacardi Centre of Excellence at FIU’s Chaplin School.

Mr Connors said: "We are thrilled to support the hospitality industry of Bermuda with Future Proof.

“Our modern approach features some of the best educational development courses in the industry and our learning modules are designed to elevate the knowledge and skills of the seasoned professional and individuals who are new to the industry.”

Douglas Mello, the managing Director of Bacardi Bermuda, expressed his pride in partnering with the BTA and FIU Chaplin School to launch the programme.

He said: “We are committed to giving back to our community and continuing to support the needs of bar owners and hospitality partners.

“Earlier this year, Bacardi introduced our global bartending initiative, Shake Your Future, which successfully transformed the lives of six unemployed, young Bermudians.

“Future Proof serves as an additional resource, reinforcing our commitment to inspire, educate, and foster job opportunities within the hospitality industry.”

The BTA said its e-learning platform helped strengthen the tourism sector by investing in the professional development of our hospitality staff.

To learn more about BTA+, click here.