Giving Bermuda Regiment soldiers the opportunity to have their course fees paid if they enrol at Bermuda College should be expanded to allow soldiers to take up subsidised overseas education once they have completed their term of duty with the Regiment.

That?s an idea being put forward by United Bermuda Party MP Jamahl Simmons. And he would also like to see soldiers given low interest loans to help them buy their first home or start up a business.

The Shadow Minister for Race Relations and Economic Empowerment has welcome the start of a Student Solider Programme that will allow soldiers of good standing the opportunity to apply to study at Bermuda College and have their fees paid for by the Regiment.

Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Edward Lamb was joined by college president Dr. Charles Green and Home Affairs Minister Randy Horton when the scheme was announced.

The programme has an initial allocation of $100,000 and is designed to give an extra incentive and benefit to soldiers who perform well ? improving the image of the Regiment and encouraging others to join, while at the same time helping to develop the potential of the soldiers. Mr. Simmons said the UBP welcomed the programme and added: ?I believe that initiatives such as these can not only help build morale and enthusiasm among our soldiers but will also further help to instil pride and commitment to our country.

?While this marks an exciting first step, we urge the Progressive Labour Party Government to consider the following options. One is to develop a subsidy programme for soldiers who wish to pursue further education overseas, upon the successful completion of their commitment to the Bermuda Regiment.

?Secondly, developing a low interest loan programme specifically for soldiers seeking to become first-time home owners or who wish to start a business.?

And Mr Simmons said: ?With so many people feeling locked out and left behind in their own country, expanding access to higher education and expanding opportunities for home and small business ownership must be a priority.

?These programs would provide our young people the hand up they need to acquire the skills to empower themselves and take their rightful place as leaders and beneficiaries of Bermuda?s success.?