DIUNDE Smith is a young Bermudian who has reaped the rewards of distance learning.

Not only has she earned two degrees from Schiller International University, she is the latest recipient of the joint Schiller / Ministry of Telecommunications pilot online education scholarship to graduate ? and she did so with distinction.

Minister of Telecommunications and E-Commerce Michael Scott congratulated Ms Smith on graduating with an MBA in International Business, and also for being "the beneficiary of the distinguished Graduate Chairman's Award in recognition of her outstanding academic competence in the MBA International Business programme".

In addition to Ms Smith, two other students have graduated from the programme, and four others are nearing completion of their studies.

The Minister said he was "delighted that Diunde Smith has completed her degree and gained special recognition from the university. One of the key selling points of Bermuda as an e-commerce jurisdiction is our educated workforce.

"Through technology, Bermudians can now update their skills and qualifications and remain competitive in the global marketplace without leaving the island. Diunde is a fine example to others in Bermuda wishing to further their education and, in turn, their careers."

Ms Smith stands out from the other scholarship recipients in that the MBA is her second degree from Schiller, and she was so keen to graduate in the shortest possible time that she elected to travel to the University's London Campus and enrol as a full-time student so that she could complete classes which were not available on-line this term.

Before earning the MBA in international business, she graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration in 2002.

"Online learning is not for everyone," advised Ms Smith. "You will need to be self-directed and motivated to complete the modules on schedule, and initiate the communication required to be successful, but this method of study does allow a great deal of flexibility. You are able to study wherever you want, and whenever you want. You can learn at your own speed and fit your study around your other life commitments." She was grateful to the Ministry for its support, and said it allowed her to advance her education without having to give up the position she held at the time.

Ms Smith told the that, far from being satisfied with two degrees, she is only a few credits from earning a second MBA, this time in financial planning. Modestly, she expressed surprise at having been the recipient of the Graduate Chairman's award.

"I had no idea it was coming, and don't know how I was picked, but it is an honour," she said. "I was told that it's an award they give for academic performance, and dedication to the community, and I believe that it is voted by the faculty."

Attending the graduation on behalf of the Ministry was Kevin Anderson, senior policy analyst with the Department of E-Commerce, and a fellow graduate of Schiller International University who oversees the pilot programme.

He praised Ms Smith for her "tremendous achievement" and said "the Ministry is dedicated to supporting the use of online learning in Bermuda. The potential for online study is significant for our community, and we would like to encourage those interested in furthering their education to seriously consider online learning as an option."

He pointed out that there are a wide variety of courses accessible online and that it was "the ideal solution for those who are unable to leave the island due to other responsibilities".

The online degree allowed Ms Smith the flexibility to continue her career in the international sector, mostly in international insurance and reinsurance, while she studied on her home computer in the evening and at weekends. Ms Smith, 33, said that, now she was back in Bermuda, she hoped that her experience and qualifications would open up new possibilities.

"I am hoping that the MBA will open up more opportunities for roles in management. I have a lot of experience in the international sector in accounting and administrative positions, and would like to put what I have learned in theory into practice, to expand my knowledge base.

Ms Smith has been so busy pursuing her educational goals that she has had little time for extracurricular activities or sports, but intends to pass on her knowledge and experience as a mentor to young Bermudians.

"I am getting in touch with youthnet, because they are always looking for mentors. I have been too busy to do anything but work and study in the last few years!"