RECOGNISING Her longstanding support for programs that bring business and education together, the Bahamas Hotel Association (BHA) has presented Sharon Ferguson, the Ministry of Education's education officer for career and technical education, with its annual Business-Education Partnership Award. BHA president Stuart Bowe, joined by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, presented the award at the BHA's Annual General Meeting luncheon last month. "Ms Ferguson is most deserving of this recognition, having worked with our industry for many years on programs which have improved student and educator awareness about our dynamic industry, strengthened the tourism-related school curriculum, built basic entry-level skills for students, advanced the culinary profession and promoted scholarship opportunities. She has been a key pillar in the bridge which connects education with industry, and students to their future," said Mr Bowe. "We wish to underscore the critical importance of industry and education working together to improve opportunities for young people, better prepare them to seize those opportunities, and helping them to make a positive contribution to our economy and our nation. "Industry is motivated by individuals like Sharon Ferguson, whose leadership and support has also inspired many other educators to embrace industry to the benefit of our young people." In accepting the award, Ms Ferguson pledged to continue to support initiatives that prepare young people for careers in the industry. Joining in the award presentation was the Ministry's permanent secretary Elma Garraway, the first recipient of the BHA Award.