Middle school students visiting the offices of Chubb learnt about career opportunities that are available in international business on the island and beyond.

They were at the premises of the insurer and reinsurer as part of International Business Week, and as part of an educational drive by the Association of Bermuda International Companies, and others, to promote careers in the sector.

Dallio Rabain, Minister of Education, joined a group of Dellwood Middle School students at the offices of Chubb.

He said: “I am deeply encouraged by Abic, the BDA [Bermuda Business Development Agency], and the other Bermuda-based industry associations and global companies, for their commitment to promote careers in international business.”

He said the international business sector is vital to our economy, and added: “It is because of this that we welcome initiatives like today’s that seek to increase awareness and access for our young people and, connect them to jobs and career paths through educational outreach, mentorship and scholarships.”

He applauded Abic for its educational programmes, including enrichment of middle-school curriculum, mentorship in high schools, work placements, and scholarships that have provided hundreds of students with postsecondary opportunities.

Mr Rabain said: “We want students to know that there are many different kinds of jobs in international business on our island. The IB sector employs close to 3,800 people, 65 per cent of which are Bermudians or their spouses. They work as accountants, actuaries, designers, underwriters, lawyers, human resources and IT professionals, marketers, communication experts, and event-planners.

“There is not just one type of IB job; global companies on our island seek a variety of talents. So, to students, we say: get informed, get good grades, get involved in the community, apply for scholarships, and network, network, network.”

Samantha Froud, chief administration officer for Chubb’s Bermuda operations and the scholarship committee chairwoman of the Abic Education Awards, said: “Chubb is both pleased and honoured to host students from Dellwood Middle School for International Business Week, in partnership with other industry groups.

“This high-calibre event brings vital career and business information directly to students to help them succeed in their future career aspirations and endeavours.”

International Business Week is supported by Abic, the BDA, the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers, and Bermuda International Long Term Insurers and Reinsurers.