Ministry of Commerce Hosts 18 from Vermont University
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Contact: Chris Satney
Tuesday, January 8, 2008 – The huge impact of a partnership between the University of Vermont and the Ministry of Commerce, is ensuring continuation of the institution's community development programme on the island for years to come.
Some 18 graduate and undergraduate students from the institution are presently on island to implement their university projects as part of their studies.
The country has already benefited from several projects implemented by previous delegations, including the installation of a micro hydro unit at Latille Waterfalls. This year, the new group of students will, among several projects to be initiated, install a wind turbine in Praslin.
“I have received several comments that the experience that they have received in St. Lucia changes their path to the future in interest in international work, community development work and working with ministries and governments in other countries. This has a huge impact on the students, said Head of delegation and Professor at the University of Vermont Charles Kerchner.
Director of Consumer Affairs Philip McLauren is very pleased with the gains made by the country over the last four years, as a result of the projects initiated by University of Vermont students.
“This augers well for the country as a whole, when we can benefit from a university in the US. Most times the projects they undertake do not cost but benefit St. Lucia tremendously. We believe that we have to position ourselves to take advantage of such opportunities,” said Mr. McLauren.
Staff of the Commerce Ministry are also benefiting from the four-year relationship with the University of Vermont. Mr. McLauren said four staff members participated in a week-long programme in consumer research in 2007.
“We are trying to build capacity in consumer research and so we found that very helpful. We believe that it is not only the Ministry of Commerce but also agencies of government and the private sector can benefit tremendously from the this exchange programme,” he said.
The students will also initiate projects on HIV/AIDS education and watershed management. Of the 18 students from Department of Community Development Applied Economics of the University, 14 are undergraduate students, while four are graduates. |
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