The Pre-university Men's Programme (PUMP) is a one-year initiative, which provides men with skills which are necessary for their survival. These skills include communication and sports.

Dr Claude Packer, president of Mico University College said the PUMP is similar to a finishing school. The men are then able to matriculate to the four-year degree programme. Some 60 men applied and about 35 were accepted.

The president told The Sunday Gleaner that the programme has been reaping success and has improved the men's self esteem.

The Mico president said men shy away from the classroom primarily because of the poor remuneration.

"Men have to take care of their family and that money cannot stretch," said Packer.

"But we are selling them that teaching service is excellent. They don't have to spend all their life in education, they can give service and then branch off into another area," Packer told The Sunday Gleaner.