NDC Launches Local Rollout of Cayman Smart Serve Training

12 May 2026 | Press Release | By: CIG Communications

The National Drug Council (NDC), in continued partnership with the Academy of Wine & Spirits, is pleased to announce the local rollout of the Cayman Smart Serve Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Training, marking a significant step forward in strengthening industry standards and prevention efforts across the Cayman Islands.

The first locally delivered training sessions are scheduled for:

  • June 2, 2026
  • June 30, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Location: Le Petit Bar
  • Cost: $75 KYD

Participants can register online at: https://www.academyofwineandspirits.org/course-enquiry?courseid=MTU4

Building on the recently announced certification partnership, these training sessions mark the formal transition to a locally delivered, sustainable and internationally aligned certification programme, designed to support the evolving needs of the Cayman Islands’ hospitality sector while strengthening national prevention efforts.

For over two decades, the NDC has provided Responsible Beverage Service training to the hospitality sector at no cost as a part of its commitment to prevention and public education. This new phase builds on that legacy, introducing an enhanced model that supports long-term sustainability, professionalisation of service standards, and alignment with global best practices, while ensuring continued accessibility to high-quality training within the Cayman Islands.

Responsible beverage service remains a critical component of national public health and safety. Well-trained service staff play a key role in reducing alcohol-related harm, including over-service, underage access, impaired driving, and alcohol-related incidents. The Cayman Smart Serve programme is therefore positioned as a practical and proactive investment in both industry standards and community wellbeing.

The Cayman Smart Serve training equips participants with essential, real-world skills, including identifying intoxication, verifying identification, and applying responsible service practices, all within a framework that reflects Cayman’s unique cultural and service environment.

 

Mrs. Brenda Watson, Director of the National Drug Council, stated:

“This rollout marks an important milestone for the National Drug Council and for the hospitality sector. We are moving toward a model that not only strengthens the quality and consistency of responsible beverage service but also ensures that this training is sustainably delivered here in the Cayman Islands. We encourage all hospitality professionals, operators, managers, bartenders, servers, and event personnel to take full advantage of this opportunity. Participation in this training is not only an investment in professional development, but more importantly, a commitment strengthening a culture of responsibility, safety, and professionalism across the sector. This collective effort benefits both the industry and the wider community, while reinforcing the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a premier destination.”

Mr Christian Esser, Founder of the Academy of Wine & Spirits, added:

“We are proud to work alongside the National Drug Council to bring certified, world-class beverage education to the Cayman Islands. This programme represents more than just training; it is an investment in people, standards, and the future of the hospitality industry. The NDC is calling on the hospitality sector to actively participate in this rollout, recognising that strong industry engagement is essential to building a culture of responsible service across the Cayman Islands. At the Academy of Wine & Spirits, our goal is to deliver accredited education across multiple disciplines throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, and this partnership reflects our commitment to supporting local industries with globally recognised, high-quality training.”

Responsible beverage service training plays a vital role in reducing alcohol-related harm, supporting safer service environments, and reinforcing the Cayman Islands’ reputation as a premier tourism destination.

These upcoming sessions form part of a broader national effort to strengthen prevention, build industry capacity, and support responsible service practices across all levels of the hospitality sector.

Additional training sessions and expanded engagement initiatives will continue to be rolled out in the coming months as a part of our continued commitment to prevention, capacity building and public health protection

For more information about the training or to register
https://www.academyofwineandspirits.org/course-enquiry?courseid=MTU4

For more information about the National Drug Council, visit:
www.ndc.ky or call 949-9000

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