NCU to host international research conference

Northern Caribbean University (NCU) will host an international research conference at its main campus in Mandeville from March 27 to 30, 2019, under the theme 'Research: Meeting Human Needs'.

NCU President Dr Lincoln Edwards made the announcement during a recent press conference.

He said the Third Universities of the Inter-American Division Research Conference will be attended by representatives from twelve universities affiliated with the Inter-American Division (IAD) of Seventh-day Adventists, which is coordinating the event through its Education Department.

The IAD comprises the territories of Mexico; Central America; the Caribbean; and the five northernmost countries in South America, namely, Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.

In addition to participants from twelve IAD-affiliated institutions, there will be representatives of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, the National Technological Institute of Mexico, and the University of Massachusetts.

PARTICIPANTS

Edwards said that at least 50 overseas presenters and 25 of their local counterparts, along with members of local tertiary institutions, will make up the 150 participants expected to attend the conference. This, he noted, will redound to the benefit of hospitality interests in the mid-island town.

The conference will include presentations on a range of topics to include: creation science, environmental science, medical microbiology, public health and nutrition, issues in education, behavioural and social issues, contemporary issues in theology, and integration of faith and learning.

According to Jacqueline Vigilance, director of research at NCU, the objectives of the conference include:

- Encouraging the exchange of ideas and research experiences.

- Disseminating the research of Adventist professionals, academics, researchers, and students from all areas of knowledge.

- Promoting a culture of research according to the philosophy of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the 13 universities of the Inter-American Division.

- Fostering collaboration and training in interdisciplinary and inter-institutional research topics.

Vigilance said that the format of the conference involves plenary sessions, oral and poster presentations, and panel discussions. She added that the expected outcomes of the conference are the creation of research networks and collaborative research, the strengthening of research in several areas of expertise, and the gaining of continuing-education credits by participants who qualify.