An important international symposium focused on the future of science and technology in the Caribbean was recently held, bringing together scientists from all around the world. The event, organized by Professor Shirin Haque of the University of the West Indies (UWI) and supported by the Simons Foundation, aimed to establish a central hub for science in the region.
The symposium attracted a diverse group of experts including physicists, computer scientists, astronomers, technologists, entrepreneurs, policy makers, conservationists, and leaders. Through various events, conversations, and collaborations, participants envisioned the future of science and technology in the Caribbean.
One of the key goals of the symposium was to foster collaboration between scholars in the region and around the globe. This was achieved through partnerships and networking opportunities that built bridges between Caribbean scientists, students, and the broader scientific community. The Radio Astronomy Data Imaging and Analysis Lab (RADIAL) program and NINE program were two examples of successful collaborations between UWI and NRAO that provided access to training in radio astronomy for underrepresented individuals. Several UWI undergraduates have participated in RADIAL program with three joining this year.
Professor Haque played a key role in organizing this event as she has a long-standing partnership with NRAO. She completed her Ph.D at UWI and University of Virginia under an IDB fellowship before becoming a professor at UWI. Trinidadian diaspora Professor Stephon Alexander from Brown University led