Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) Set to Host Transformative Quality Management Training for Businesses

Nassau, The Bahamas [December 1, 2023] — Businesses in The Bahamas now have the enlightening opportunity to elevate their quality assurance practices through a comprehensive five-day training session focused on implementing a robust Quality Management Infrastructure (QMI). Hosted by the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality in collaboration with the Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC) and partially sponsored by the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Programme, this initiative is poised to significantly enhance industry standards and catalyze economic growth.
The training, scheduled from December 6th to 8th and 11th to 12th, 2023, at the New Providence Community Center, Blake Road, will provide comprehensive insights into key international standards such as ISO 15189, which sets stringent requirements for quality assurance in medical laboratories, globally recognized as a benchmark for fostering trust in medical services; ISO/IEC 17025, essential for testing and calibration laboratories, facilitating precision and accuracy in measurements, and plays a pivotal role in ensuring the consistency and reliability of products and services; and lastly, ISO 9001, opened for all businesses, representing a commitment to quality and continuous improvement, offers a universal framework for enhanced product and service quality, and positions organizations as international industry leaders.

Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford, Executive Director of BBSQ, highlights the importance of the training and the profound impact it has on ensuring excellence for businesses in The Bahamas.

Dr. Ferguson-Bufford states, “We are pleased to host this event for Bahamians, as BBSQ continues in its mandate to establish a robust Quality Infrastructure with in The Bahamas. The standards highlighted in this training session serve as instruments of progress, driving economic growth and facilitating global trade. Organizations that implement these standards not only elevate their quality management practices but also position themselves as leaders in their respective industries worldwide.”
Minister of Economic Affairs, Senator Hon. Michael Halkitis, who will deliver the keynote address for this impactful event also shared his enthusiasm. “The work of BBSQ is an essential contribution to the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Empowering businesses with the tools and knowledge to uphold international standards is a strategic investment in our nation’s economic future. My Ministry is proud to support initiatives that drive excellence and competitiveness in The Bahamas, contributing to sustained growth and prosperity for our communities.”

The training will be facilitated by trainers from the Jamaica National Agency for Accredication (JANAAC) one of the oldest standing accreditation agencies in the region which further enhances its value.

Chief Executive Officer of JANAAC, Sharonmae Shirley shares, “As one of the pioneers in accreditation, JANAAC is honored to collaborate with BBSQ to impart our extensive knowledge. Our partnership aims to strengthen the foundation of quality management practices in The Bahamas and contribute to the region’s overall economic development.”

BBSQ extends a warm invitation to businesses and industry representatives to participate in this enlightening training session. Attendance for the training is free and will run from 9am-4pm daily. Participants are invited to register and secure their seats at www.bbsq.bs.

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About BBSQ:
The Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality is committed to promoting quality and standards across industries to enhance competitiveness, facilitate international trade, and safeguard consumers.

About JANAAC:
The Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC) is one of the oldest standing accreditation agencies in the region. With a history rooted in excellence, JANAAC is dedicated to promoting quality and facilitating trade by providing internationally recognized accreditation services.

Sponsored by:
11TH EDF-EPA-TBT Programme
The 11TH EDF-EPA-TBT Programme, sponsored by the European Development Fund, serves as a crucial instrument for development aid to the 79 ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific) countries and OCTs, aiming to foster economic growth and international collaboration.