TCI Community College Embarks on Pioneering UK Study Tour, Attends World Academic Summit

This year’s World Academic Summit panelists at the event

In a bold step towards international collaboration and academic excellence, a small delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC), led by Chairman of the Board of Governors, Dr. Barbara Ambrister, recently completed a transformative study tour of leading universities in the United Kingdom.

 The delegation also participated in the prestigious World Academic Summit in Manchester, UK, hosted by Times Higher Education (THE), signaling TCICC's commitment to expanding its global footprint and fostering educational innovation.

This strategic tour marked a pivotal moment for TCICC, as the institution strengthens its partnerships with world-class universities and aligns with its vision of becoming the first choice for education and training in the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond.

The delegation visited renowned institutions such as Leeds Beckett University, The University of Manchester, Birmingham City University, and the University of Bradford.

Dr. Candice Malcolm (right) participates in one of the World Academic Forums

 Discussions were focused on establishing collaborative initiatives, including:

1. Credit Transfers, Joint Courses, and Postgraduate Pathways: Streamlining pathways for TCICC graduates into UK postgraduate programs.

2. Research Collaborations: Identifying joint research projects that leverage academic strengths.

3. Institutional Strengthening: Adopting best practices in administration, quality assurance, and inclusivity.

4. International Internships and Faculty Exchanges: Enhancing cross-cultural academic exchanges for students and staff.

5. Technology Integration and Digital Learning: Exploring innovative digital platforms for enhanced learning experiences.

6. Lifelong Learning and Short Courses: Expanding TCICC’s offerings to meet evolving workforce needs.

7. Funding and Grant Opportunities: Gaining insights into securing financial resources through grants and partnerships.

8. Faculty Development: Creating new professional development initiatives for TCICC staff and faculty.

Dr. Candice Malcolm (right), President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, and Dr. Barbara Ambrister – Chairman of the Board of Governors at the college, share lens with representatives of Birmingham City University.

Dr. Barbara Ambrister and TCICC President, Dr. Candice Williams, also represented the College at the World Academic Summit, a global gathering of over 500 delegates from leading institutions.

Themed "Making a Difference: The Purpose of Universities in a Rapidly Changing World," the summit provided a platform for TCICC to engage in critical discussions on the future of higher education, including:

• The global approach to micro-credentials and inclusive lifelong learning.

• Building innovation ecosystems through partnerships between academia, industry, and government.

• The role of AI in transforming higher education's impact on society.

Dr. Barbara Ambrister, Chairman of the Board, remarked, "This study tour and summit reaffirm our commitment to aligning TCICC with international standards. It is essential that TCICC have a seat at the table where crucial higher education decisions are being made, forging pivotal partnerships. By doing so, we can guarantee that our vision is aligned with global strategies, thus equipping our students with the essential knowledge and skills for the sustainable development of our nation and beyond."

Dr. Candice Williams, President of TCICC, added, "We are driving toward a future where TCICC is synonymous with excellence and innovation. Our collaborations with UK institutions and the insights gained from the World Academic Summit will empower us to develop programmes and policies that will truly make an impact—on our students, our community, and beyond."

Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education commended the Chairman and President for their visionary leadership in driving TCICC’s growth and international outreach. She shared ‘This study tour and participation in the World Academic Summit demonstrate their commitment to elevating the institution and aligning it with global standards. The partnerships we are building will have lasting benefits for the people of Turks and Caicos Islands, creating new opportunities for our students and strengthening our national development.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Community College is committed to providing world-class education and training through innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. As the leading institution for higher learning in the Turks and Caicos Islands, TCICC aims to foster human capital development by offering diverse academic and vocational programmes designed to meet the evolving needs of the local and global workforce.