The Ministry of Education has welcomed a mobile service company and several other businesses as partners of the public school system.

The newly signed signature learning partners will offer public school pupils real-world learning experiences in different industries.

Paradise Mobile, Bermuda’s first new mobile network since 2005, will give pupils a crash course on cutting-edge technology to help young people develop their technological abilities.

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of Education, said: “At the heart of our education reform is the understanding that to prepare young Bermudians for global competition and local contribution, they must be equipped with essential 21st-century skills including digital fluency and entrepreneurship.

“This partnership is a significant step towards achieving that goal.”

Mr Rabain was speaking after he and representatives from The Berkeley Institute, CedarBridge Academy and Sandys Secondary Middle School signed memorandums of understanding with the new industry partner.

He said that the ministry’s partnership with Paradise Mobile would help senior school pupils to achieve one of their graduation requirements to earn an internationally recognised Digital Competency Certificate.

The collaboration will offer young people internships, knowledge of careers in Stem fields and entrepreneurial opportunities in fintech.

Graduating students will also have the chance to launch start-up companies based on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, all through the Paradise Mobile network.

Sam Tabbara, the chief executive of Paradise Mobile, said: “This collaboration underscores our commitment to helping young Bermudians interested in technology and/or entrepreneurship have the mentorship and experience to build products and services running on our next-generation network.

“It also will help to create an ecosystem for Bermudians to stay in Bermuda instead of going abroad to pursue technology opportunities.

“Together we are building a brighter future, fostering creativity and nurturing the talent that will drive tomorrow's technological advancements.”

Other signature learning partners include Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa and BAC Group of Companies.