THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation, in conjunction with the Bahamas National Craft Association, held a graduation ceremony for participants in a shell craft and painting workshop. BAIC executive chairman Arnold Forbes delivered the commencement address to the class of 28 students. The workshop, which covered a diverse range of craft techniques, was spearheaded by the Handicraft Department of BAIC. Mr Forbes admonished the students to not "sit on" their newly-acquired skills, as they represent an opportunity to use entrepreneurship to empower themselves economically. He also spoke about the launch of the Bahamas Virtual Platform, which will be totally devoted to promoting locally-made products - a Bahamian version of the e-commerce portal, eBay. The chairman said he intends for BAIC to become a facilitator of business growth throughout the country and an "incubator" for fledgling businesses, helping ensure they succeed.