Young men need to be encouraged to study in order to increase their thirst for an education, St. Mary's University president Colin Dodd, told Hamilton Rotarians yesterday.

Mr. Dodd is on the Island to speaking to college-bound students.

Pointing out that 55 percent of his school's population was female, Mr. Dodd said: "While that figure is reflective of our overall population, I think it says that it's difficult to engage young man.

Some of it is an age factor. It's sometimes difficult to explain to them that it's important to study."

Emphasised that education is the key to a community's survival, Mr. Dodd said there were several qualities that St. Mary's looked for in a student.

"Apart from basic academic skills, the person should also have strong communication and interpersonal skills," he said.

"We are also increasingly looking for language skills - if you can speak Spanish, you're on your way. Those skills are important when they fit together."

Mr. Dodd also said Bermudians seeking education abroad should still be encouraged to participate in mobility programmes in order to expand their minds and life experiences even further.

"So when they come back to Bermuda, they will have a better understanding of the world, civil society and social justice."

However, Mr. Dodd said, people should not turn their backs on the trades.

"In ten years, those employed as plumbers and carpenters will retire and there will be a shortage.

"That's why community colleges are ramping up. They are good jobs and they do quite well."