The 2023-24 season has been a landmark one for the Let’s Swim Bahamas Program, marking its second year of full operations following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative, focused on providing free learn-to-swim lessons to children across New Providence, has made significant strides in reaching more students and enhancing the quality of its offerings.
One of the program’s key achievements this year was the formalization of strategic partnerships that have bolstered its capacity for growth. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, alongside a five-year agreement with the Ministry of Education & Technical & Vocational Training. These partnerships, supported by Minister Wayne Munroe and Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin, have provided a solid foundation for the program’s expansion and sustainability.
There was a significant increase in overall student participation in the program, rising from 28 percent to 35 percent capacity across eight government primary schools. This includes a particularly impressive achievement at Eva Hilton Primary, where 100 percent of the grade one class participated in the swimming lessons. In total, more than 1,500 students received eight free swimming lessons each, underscoring the program’s commitment to making swimming education accessible to all.
To ensure high standards of instruction, the program also invested in the professional development of its coaches. This year, 28 new coaches earned their Swim America Training certificates, reinforcing the program’s dedication to quality and safety. These efforts were recognized on a national level when the program was awarded the National Community Sports Award 2023, highlighting its positive impact on the community.
Looking ahead, the Let’s Swim Bahamas Program has outlined an ambitious strategic plan aimed at further expanding its reach and enhancing the effectiveness of its operations. One of the primary objectives is to grow the team of coaches, site supervisors, and marshals to support the operation of three swim sites. The goal is to provide free swim lessons to over 2,300 students across 13 primary schools in New Providence, maintaining an average participation rate of 35 percent.
Financial sustainability is a critical aspect of this expansion. The operational cost per site is estimated at $50,000, and the program also faces the significant expense of refurbishing the 25-meter pool at the Betty Kelly-Kenning National Swim Complex. To address these financial needs, the program is actively recruiting volunteers to focus on fundraising efforts, which will be essential to supporting its growth.
In addition to expanding its reach, the program is also embracing technology to improve efficiency. Plans are underway to develop an application that will enable electronic registration, making it easier for parents and guardians to enroll their children in the swim lessons.
A core component of the Let’s Swim Bahamas Program’s mission is promoting water safety. The program will continue its efforts to raise awareness about water safety, with a goal of reducing water-related accidents and ensuring that all participants can enjoy the water safely. This ongoing campaign is a vital part of the program’s broader commitment to the well-being of the community.
As the Let’s Swim Bahamas Program prepares for the upcoming year, its leaders are focused on building on the successes of the 2023-24 season. With strong partnerships, a clear strategic vision, and a deep commitment to the children of New Providence, the program is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
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Publish date : 2024-08-28 00:00:00
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