The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Public Advocacy at The University of the West Indies will be hosting a symposium on March 20th with the theme “Strengthening Cooperation Between African & Caribbean States: Facing the Challenges, Creating Solutions.” The event aims to facilitate the sharing of ideas, experiences, and best practices, and develop a framework for advancing collaboration between African and Caribbean entities, researchers, and policy-makers. The Symposium will be a hybrid event, held at The UWI’s Regional Headquarters in Jamaica and livestreamed on UWItv on various platforms.
The PJ Patterson Institute, launched in June 2020, is dedicated to building bridges between CARICOM and African States through academic exchanges and collaborations with institutions. Former Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Most Honourable PJ Patterson, leads the Institute as the Statesman in Residence at The UWI. The Institute’s mandate includes initiating public dialogue on climate change, information technology, and innovation. Prominent figures such as the Hon. Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, and H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of Nigeria, are expected to provide remarks at the symposium’s opening session.
The symposium will feature panel discussions on Climate Change Mitigation Strategies and Opportunities for Africa and the Caribbean, as well as on Information Technology and Innovation. Presentations will be made by key figures such as Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of CARICOM, and Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of OECS. The event aims to pave the way for renewed efforts by African and Caribbean countries to broaden, deepen, and accelerate functional cooperation in a variety of development-related areas.
The symposium will provide a platform for stakeholders from Africa and the Caribbean to engage in dialogue, exchange viewpoints, and explore potential avenues for collaboration. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, and other entities from both regions, the event seeks to foster a stronger partnership that can address shared challenges and create sustainable solutions. The symposium’s focus on climate change, technology, and innovation reflects the urgent need for joint action to tackle global issues affecting both Africa and the Caribbean.
Overall, the symposium organized by the PJ Patterson Institute at The UWI represents a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between African and Caribbean states. Through facilitated discussions, presentations, and engagement with key stakeholders, the event aims to lay the groundwork for enhanced collaboration in various areas of development. As the world faces complex challenges, initiatives like this symposium play a crucial role in fostering mutual understanding and collective action for the benefit of both regions.
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25 Comments
Is collaboration between Caribbean and Africa really necessary for progress? Lets discuss!
Is collaboration really possible between Caribbean and Africa? Lets discuss! 🌍🤔
Interesting discussion, but what about including diaspora perspectives for a more holistic approach?
Good point. Diaspora perspectives are crucial for a comprehensive understanding. Ignoring them would be a major oversight. Lets broaden the discussion to truly embrace diversity and inclusivity. Thanks for highlighting this important aspect!
Should we prioritize Caribbean-Africa collaboration over other global partnerships? What do you think?
No, global partnerships should not be prioritized based on geographic proximity alone. Collaboration should be based on mutual interests, shared values, and potential benefits for all parties involved. Lets focus on meaningful partnerships that can create positive impact worldwide.
Should Caribbean-Africa collaboration focus on cultural exchange over economic partnerships?
Should we prioritize trade or cultural exchange between Caribbean and Africa? Thoughts?
Trade should be the priority – economic growth benefits both regions. Cultural exchange is important but wont solve poverty or create jobs. Lets focus on building strong trade partnerships that can uplift both the Caribbean and Africa economically.
Should we focus on more regional collaborations instead? Caribbean-Africa ties seem limited. Thoughts?
I wonder if this collaboration will lead to more cultural exchanges and partnerships.
I highly doubt it. Collaborations like these rarely result in substantial cultural exchanges or partnerships. Its usually just a marketing tactic to appeal to a wider audience. Dont get your hopes up for anything meaningful to come out of it.
I think its great to see more connections between the Caribbean and Africa. Exciting possibilities!
I agree, its about time we recognize and celebrate the deep historical and cultural connections between the Caribbean and Africa. The potential for collaboration and exchange is truly exciting. Lets embrace this opportunity for mutual growth and understanding.
Should we prioritize Caribbean-Africa collaboration over other global partnerships? Lets discuss!
Do you think collaboration between Caribbean and Africa is the key to progress?
Shouldnt we be focusing on collaboration within the Caribbean before reaching out to Africa?
While collaboration within the Caribbean is important, expanding connections with Africa can lead to mutually beneficial opportunities for trade, cultural exchange, and growth. Embracing a global perspective can enhance the regions impact and influence on the world stage. Lets think beyond borders and embrace diverse partnerships.
I wonder if they discussed potential joint projects in renewable energy or agriculture.
Its all about the money, not the planet. Big corporations only care about profits, not saving the environment. Dont be fooled by their talk of joint projects in renewable energy or agriculture – its just greenwashing to make themselves look good.
Do you think this collaboration will actually lead to tangible results? Lets discuss!
Should Caribbean and African nations form a unified economic bloc? Lets discuss!
Interesting, but are we overlooking other regions for collaboration opportunities? Just a thought.
Hey there, great point! Its true that we might be missing out on potential collaboration opportunities in other regions. Lets broaden our horizons and explore all possibilities. Thanks for bringing this up!
Shouldnt we be focusing on collaboration within the Caribbean first before expanding to Africa?