Bermuda College has signed an agreement with a US university affording Bermudians increased access to quality education and addressing national priorities for the island.

The deal with Kean University, an urban research university in New Jersey, is the 40th overseas agreement signed by the college, which has forged partnerships with accredited colleges and universities in Canada, Britain, the US and the Caribbean, creating transfer pathways for Bermudian students to further their studies abroad.

Lamont Repollet, the Kean president, said the partnership marked a “significant step” in expanding access to quality education and developing Bermuda’s workforce.

He added: “Many Kean alumni already make meaningful contributions across Bermuda, and this partnership further strengthens our ability to create change and help foster a positive future for Bermudians.”

The agreement includes academic pathways for aspiring teachers, offering two years at Bermuda College and two years at Kean University — as well as advanced opportunities such as a master's degree and doctorate in education.

David Sam, president of Bermuda College, said the “excellent” move would fill “part of the higher education gap on the island”, with a need for more senior schoolteachers in the science, technology, engineering and maths, or Stem, fields.

Dr Sam said scholarships and financial aid packages for Bermuda College students, combined with the partnership with Kean, could bring would-be teachers in Stem fields an affordable university experience.

He added: “The agreement will facilitate a smoother transition for Bermuda College students to continue their education without unnecessary delays or impediments.

“By aligning our programmes, both institutions can work together to host joint workshops, professional development activities and new opportunities for faculty and student exchange.”