Dr. Marcia Blair-Thomas, Chair of the FORECAST 2024 organizing committee, expressed satisfaction with the expanded partnership, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing research and development in the region. She emphasized the critical role of scientific and technological research in economic growth and sustainable development. Professor Samson Omoregie, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Sport at UTech, Ja., highlighted the conference’s demonstration of the region’s capacity for cooperation in technological advancement. He emphasized the importance of knowledge creation and innovation for economic growth. Professor Marvin Reid, Deputy Principal of the University of the West Indies, Mona, pointed out that economic growth relies on robust scientific and technological systems. He warned that Caribbean nations risk becoming perpetual consumers of technology rather than producers, and proposed training STEM teachers and developing practical curricula to foster innovation. Professor Paloma Mohamed, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, advocated for a streamlined education system that prioritizes technology, emphasizing the need for a focus on practical applications of science from the high school level onward. Grand Innovation Challenge The conference concluded on August 16 with an awards ceremony, where the student team InnovaTech from The University of the West Indies, Mona, won the Grand Innovation Challenge and a prize of US$3,000. The second-place prize of US$1,500 went to Marcus Garvey Technical High School’s team, Impact Innovators, which also received the Best High School Award of US$500. UTech, Ja.’s team, ‘Elemninetic’ Solutions, placed third, earning a prize of US$750. Nicardo Wisdom (right), from team ‘Impact Innovators’ explains the functions of the Sonar Footwear being worn for demonstration by Miss Conna-Lee Jones, Science Teacher, Marcus Garvey Technical High School during the final pitch round of the Grand Innovation Challenge at the FORECAST 2024 Conference. The team which also consists of Bereek Thomas, Rajay Chin, Rodre Clarke won 2nd place in the GIC for their creative sneakers specially designed for the visually challenged with obstacle-detecting capabilities to reduce the risk of collision, tripping and falling while walking. The team also copped the GIC award for ‘Best High School.’ (L-R) UTech, Ja students, Karece Lloyd and Anthony James from the team ‘Eleminetic Solutions’, pitch their creative idea for waste management during the finals of the FORECAST 2024 Conference’s Grand Innovation Challenge on Friday, August 16, 2024, , Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Ja. Papine Campus. 7 July - September 2024 | VOICES Quarterly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Several presenters were also recognized during the closing ceremony, including Miss Desireina Delancy, who received the award for Best Oral Presentation. The conference featured demonstrations such as Nicardo Wisdom from the team ‘Impact Innovators,’ showcasing their innovative Sonar Footwear designed for visually challenged individuals. Additionally, UTech, Ja. students Karece Lloyd and Anthony James pitched their waste management solution during the GIC finals. A panel discussion on the final day, moderated by George Davis of Nationwide News Network, emphasized the need for collaboration among academia, the private sector, and government to drive research and innovation for sustainable development in the Caribbean. Cont’d from page 6… UTech, Ja President Advocates for Collaborative STEM Initiatives at FORECAST 2024 Conference
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDQ5NzI=