The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy orchestrated its inaugural symposium on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, on the UWI Regional Headquarters.
The symposium attracted a prestigious meeting, boasting the presence of each present and former heads of state from the Caribbean and Africa, alongside eminent educational figures.
This convergence of influential minds was geared toward fostering sturdy collaboration between two areas with deeply intertwined histories.
Charting a course for cooperation
Former Prime Minister of Jamaica and patron of the Institute, PJ Patterson, delivered a poignant handle, emphasizing the symposium’s significance in steering in the direction of enhanced cooperation.
Patterson highlighted the crucial to confront challenges and innovate options to strengthen ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
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Reparative justice and world advocacy
Echoing Patterson’s sentiments, Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, underscored the need for solidarity within the pursuit of reparative justice.
Mottley emphasised the significance of standing collectively as companions and allies, amplifying their collective voice on the worldwide stage to advance widespread pursuits.
Honoring historic bonds
Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, mirrored on the profound historic connections between the Caribbean and Africa.
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He emphasised the deep ties solid by shared experiences of historical past, tradition, oppression, and identification.
Expressing concern, Obasanjo lamented the inadequate funding in important areas vital for important growth and enchancment in residents’ lives.
College partnership for collective development
Professional Vice-Chancellor of UWI, Sir Hilary Beckles, elucidated the pivotal position of the PJ Patterson Institute in collaborating with the College to advance collective pursuits.
Beckles highlighted the dedication to nurturing a synergistic partnership, notably essential within the modern period characterised by the ascendancy of World Africa.
Exploring essential themes
Delving into multifaceted discussions, the symposium addressed a spectrum of urgent themes. From Ability and Digital Transformation to Local weather Mitigation and Coverage Views, the discourse encapsulated the complexities and alternatives inherent in Africa-Caribbean cooperation.
Furthermore, the impression of Synthetic Intelligence emerged as a big focus, underscoring the crucial for progressive options in an ever-evolving world panorama.
By means of dynamic engagement and visionary management, the inaugural symposium laid a formidable basis for intensified collaboration, poised to catalyze transformative change throughout Africa and the Caribbean.
