University of The Bahamas’ (UB) commitment and capacity to conduct leading-edge marine science and environmental conservation research has taken another major leap forward following its recent partnership with one of the oldest leading research organizations in The Bahamas.
On Tuesday, 6th February, UB executed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), an organization with a rich history of contributing to important, innovative marine research and ecosystem restoration around the Caribbean Sea. The MOU signing took place in the President's Boardroom of the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre (HCML) at UB’s Oakes Field Campus.
By combining resources, UB and PIMS new partnership will work toward the development of joint research facilities and partnerships with renowned global institutions, a net benefit for The Bahamas. Such ventures will not only expand the research landscape in The Bahamas, but also nurture an environment where innovation and academic excellence in marine science research can thrive.
“The important work to be carried out in marine and environmental conservation and research lives through partnerships like this one, which build on dialogue and provide greater structure for execution into the future,” said UB President Janyne Hodder. “UB will achieve all that it must in national development goals and research capacity output through increasing its partnerships like the one we’re engaged in.”
PIMS Executive Director, Dr. Craig Dahlgren, said UB’s commitment to marine and environmental science research, as evidenced by its recent landmark Conservation Conclave, is to be commended. He said PIMS is fully committed to supporting UB in its ongoing efforts to increase marine science research capacity.
“It is very clear that University of The Bahamas has the intention and has made a deliberate commitment to becoming a national force for conservation in The Bahamas, and we applaud that effort,” said Dr. Dahlgren. “And I think we’reuniquely positioned to help the University of The Bahamas achieve those objectives in the marine conservation space.
“We’re strongly committed to helping build capacity and the local conservation talent pipeline in The Bahamas. This MOU signing is a major the next step in that regard, where we can help develop marine science research capacity within University of The Bahamas, and also help expand PIMS reach so that we touch the lives of the next generation of Bahamians who wish to work marine science and conservation.”
Dr. Krista Sherman, PIMS Senior Fisheries Scientist added: “At PIMS we are proud to be the largest marine science research employer in the country: over two-thirds of our team are Bahamian, at least half of those individuals are UB graduates. We are most pleased to build further on this shared history together between UB and PIMS. When advanced marine science research is permitted, the opportunities for Bahamian careers in this space are boundless.”
According to UB officials, the new partnership will usher in a new era of marine/environmental research at UB. The new partnership is expected to, among other things, increase: marine science research capacity; collaborative research work in the field; research training; programme development; career development; and development at joint facilities.
“This collaboration is more than just expanding opportunities,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Maria Oriakhi. “It’s about leveraging our combined expertise to address matters of national and/or global importance in marine science. We aim to position The Bahamas as a regional and global centre for marine science education and research. Through this joint agreement, we will enhance UB’s marine offerings, contributing to the country’s vision for a vibrant and sustainable blue economy.
“Moreover, at the University of The Bahamas, our commitment extends beyond academic excellence. We are dedicated to preparing students for a better life in a global society.”
