The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) and the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) announced on Friday that they are partnering on a project to provide business training for companies and internships for students.

The entities signed a memorandum of understanding to that end on Wednesday at the 2019 Caribbean Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises Conference at Jamaica Pegasus.

The agreement, was signed by chairman of the university and foundation boards and executive chancellor of UCC Professor Dennis J Gayle, and SBAJ President Hugh Johnson.

According to the parties, the agreement signals continued efforts by UCC to forge partnerships with various organisations in an effort to promote advanced learning, training and development, and to provide an environment for students to gain much-needed experience.

According to Professor Gayle, under the MoU the UCC will, among other things, “propose to the SBAJ relevant training programmes that its members can access at a discounted cost through its Corporate Education Division, and source required products or services from members of the association whenever possible”.

SBAJ members, meanwhile, will provide internship to students and participate in relevant conferences, workshops, and seminars scheduled at UCC where possible, among other things.

The SBAJ is a private, non-profit business organisation which fosters and encourages the growth and development of businesses and professional groups in Jamaica. It also serves as a corporate voice through which small businesses can make their views known to the Government and the public in general,on a wide range of topics, by pooling efforts and resources for the benefit of all.

Another highlight of the agreement is the participation of SBAJ member companies in UCC’s technology-based affiliate marketing or student referral programme. Companies that choose to participate in the initiative will be given the opportunity to earn a commission per enrolled student at the institution. These companies will be given an appropriate UCC affiliate link for their website, which will enable employees, customers, or other visitors to click and apply for any desired UCC undergraduate or graduate degree, corporate education programme, or other short courses.