BSJ signs MOU with UTech to widen teaching of metrology

The incorporation of metrology into the engineering and science curricula at the University of Technology (UTech) has been achieved.

This was made possible through a revised memorandum of understanding (MOU) between UTech and the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ).

The document was signed by President of UTech, Professor Stephen Vasciannie; and Executive Director of the BSJ, Stephen Wedderburn, at the university's headquarters in Papine, St. Andrew yesterday.

"This collaboration will enable the incorporation of metrology and the introduction of the rudiments of standards and quality into the engineering and science curricula," Professor Vasciannie said.

He pointed out that there would be an immediate "harmonisation" of related standards and quality into UTech's curriculum for the Master of Science in Integrated Rural Development.

Vasciannie emphasised that the prominence of the science of measurements cannot be overstated, and the university recognises the importance of ensuring students' "competency in this branch of science that is increasingly being applied to engineering, manufacturing, energy and the environment".

For his part, Wedderburn said the MOU will provide tertiary students with training and awareness sessions, development of curricula for undergraduate and graduate programmes and "access to resource materials in the completion of projects and research".

He said that students would be introduced to local and international standards that provide guidelines for internationally agreed best practices, and specifications for products and processes that can contribute to sustainable and resilient communities.

Chairman of the BSJ Standards Council James Rawle said production methods, such as agro-processing, would be examined as "critical economic activities" for rural development.

"The ultimate aim is to improve the competencies of both institutions to deliver sound programmes and development opportunities to the nation's learners," Rawle said.

The two institutions first signed an MOU in late November 2015 to improve the National Quality Infrastructure.