• FST Promotes Science Education through Research at its Fifth Research Symposium
• UB Presents Transformational Plan to Mayor Bernard Wagner and Belize City Council
• Strengthening the Relationship with India
• President Welcomes Students from the College of Agriculture, Texas A & M University
• UB President and Human Resource Director meet with staff from Physical Plant and Public Safety

UB Launches Accreditation Initiative

Dr. Mariot Simon, Vice President, fittingly brought to memory the Chinese proverb, “the journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step” at the Launch of UB’s Accreditation Initiative. As part of its Transformational Plan the University of Belize will be seeking accreditation by the year 2022. A launch was held on May 7, 2018 where Board Members, Senior Managers, Directors, Deans, Chairs and representatives of students, faculty and staff were present. Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat encouraged the participants to seize the opportunity to take this University forward. “Its attainment will not only enhance our respectability in this national, regional and global community of Universities in which we operate, but most importantly the mobility and transfer of credits of our graduates – to graduate school for example; the employability of our graduates and the potential of our graduates for enhanced financial support; the licensing process for graduates from our professional programs and very importantly our ability to attract prospective students not only from Belize, but from the Caribbean and Central America and the world over,” expounded President Sankat. Mr. Deryck Satchwell, member of the Board of Trustees, encouraged the UB team to not see accreditation as meeting a checklist of standards but developing a culture of quality. Chairman of the Board of Trustees Mr. Harrison Pilgrim congratulated the leadership team of the University for their hard work in advancing the University and assured those present of the support from the Board.

The Chairman and the President congratulated the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social Work on the news that it’s Bachelor in Social Work program meets the standards for its students to move seamlessly into US Universities to pursue their Master Degree in Social Work.

The accreditation launch was facilitated by Dr. Carlise Wynne, Professor at the University of North Georgia (UNG) and Dr. Chaudron Gille, Associate Provost, UNG. They presented on the value of accreditation, the types of accreditation and the different regional and international accrediting bodies. They then went over the standards including candidacy, documentation and quality assurance and requirements.

In the afternoon Faculty and Staff formed workgroups and brainstormed on the seven principal pillars on which the accreditation decision will be based. There was also a group that was principally focused on the Marketing and Communication to support this accreditation drive. During the presentations the ideas and enthusiasm were very evident.

President Sankat thanked Dr. Wynne and Dr. Gille for sharing their knowledge and experience with UB especially since it was in a voluntary manner. He also encouraged the UB team to continue with the enthusiasm and drive in developing quality at UB. The participants at the workshop unanimously agreed that UB should pursue accreditation. The University of Belize will be following up on this with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This will be a process where all will be further engaged.

NRM Students Teach Students About the Nature of Water

The World Water Day (WWD) 2018 Planning Committee in Belize conducted roaming presentations to some primary and secondary schools across the country. UB-FST, a partner in the WWD 2018 Planning Committee; participated in these roaming presentations visiting six schools, including two high schools and four primary schools in the Corozal, Stann Creek, Toledo districts and the City of Belmopan. The Bachelor in Natural Resource Management students in the Watershed Ecology & Management Course did oral presentations and class activities on the importance of water and description of selected watersheds in Belize. The presentations focused on this year’s World Water Day 2018 Theme, “Nature for Water: The answer is in Nature.” The school visits took place from April 21-23, 2018.

The presentations were coordinated by Mr. Josue Ake from Faculty of Science and Technology.

Tourism Marketing Students Enhance Lobby Area in Belize City

Every year the Introduction to Tourism Marketing Class guided by their lecturer Ms. Eda Chang-Arzu takes on initiatives to beautify the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences site in Belize City so as to make it more welcoming for everyone. This year was no different and at the beginning of the semester the class decided to embark on a project to enhance the lobby area of the Faculty, as partial fulfilment of this course. The lobby now has a Smart TV to share information regarding current and upcoming events, four security cameras to ensure safety of students, faculty and staff as well as of the equipment. The students also created a beautiful and comfortable seating arrangement that brings a “home-like” feeling to the workplace.

The Introduction to Tourism Marketing course entails the need to incorporate business consciousness, sustainable and project development. The students developed their knowledge and skills in these areas and they all shared the sentiment that “hard work pays off” which they are very proud to be a part of. Initiatives as this, are sure to mould, foster ownership and leadership in our students.

Ms. Eda Arzu thanks Dr. Bernard Watler, Dr. Jean Perriott, Mr. Francis Burns and Mr. Javier Rosado for supporting the students. The President on hearing of this project indicated his pleasure at this transformation that is occurring at the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences and congratulated Ms. Eda Arzu and her students. He further indicated that this should be best practice in all our Faculties.

UB Meets with Ambassador to Mexico H.E. Oliver Del Cid

H.E. Oliver Del Cid, Ambassador of Belize to Mexico, engaged the President, Vice President and Acting Director of the Regional Language Center (RLC) Mr. Noe Agreda and indicated the need for the RLC to develop professional courses, some of a short, intensive nature to train Spanish speakers in the English Language. He indicated, from his experience in Mexico City, the demand is there and urged the RLC to move in this direction.

Mr. Agreda indicated that he was already working on this matter and shared some proposals with those present at the meeting. It was agreed that these programs should be marketed via the social media and H.E. Del Cid promised to do his part in this.

UB President Delivers Distinguished Lecture on Leadership at John Paul II Junior College

Professor Sankat was invited by the leadership of John Paul II Junior College in Benque to deliver a Distinguished Lecture on May 2, 2018 to Faculty and students of the Junior College. The President spoke on “My Journey of Leadership and Service: Innovating, Transforming, Reflecting and Learning” and this was well received by the audience. The President complimented John Paul II on its lovely, distinctive infrastructure and location in Benque.

 

Fulbright Scholar Dr. Carla Fry

Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat along with Dr. Mariot Simon met with Fulbright Scholar Dr. Carla Fry and representatives of the US Embassy. Dr. Fry concluded her program at the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social Work, University of Belize and made a presentation on her proposals for revamping the nursing curriculum with more emphasis on nursing practice.

Dr. Fry also agreed to continue to assist the University of Belize in developing its nursing programs even at the graduate level.

New Building for the Faculty of Science and Technology

The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) is expanding in student numbers and programs; the President, at the request of Dean Ms. Julianne Pasos, saw fit to acquire a wooden building to support the expansion. The Chemistry Laboratory is being expanded to house both laboratory and offices for the Faculty and Staff. This work is expected to be completed in time for the new academic year. President Sankat complimented Mr. Francis Burns and his staff for the steady work they are doing on this project.

Proposed Master’s in Educational Leadership Consultation in Belize City

The President also congratulated Dean of the Faculty of Education and Arts (FEA) Dr. Nestor Chan and Assistant Professor Dr. Priscilla Brown-Lopez on a very successful stakeholder meeting with potential students for the proposed Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership (MEDL). The MEDL is scheduled to be finally approved by the Board of Trustees and commence very soon. The meeting was held on May 5, 2018 at the FEA Campus in Belize City and the room was filled to capacity. This is a very good signal with respect to the future success of this program.

UB President Appears on Krem TV Morning Show

The President, was on Krem TV, and Radio Morning Show “Wake Up Belize” on May 2, 2018. He was there specifically to speak on the Transformational Plan, on how it is progressing at the University of Belize. He was interviewed by Mr. Mose Hyde, who suggested to the President that more time was needed for an extensive interview both with Professor Sankat and the leaders of the University.

Professor Sankat Makes Regular Rounds to Central Farm Campus

Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat has been making regular rounds to Central Farm Campus as the transition has to occur to treat with the retirement of Campus Administrator, Dr. Gordon Holder. Further, he is also reviewing the progress of the EU Banana Belt project which is a very important initiative for the Central Farm Campus, the University and Belize’s Agriculture. Professor Sankat was accompanied by Vice President Dr. Mariot Simon and Dr. Dion Daniels from the Faculty of Science and Technology. It is clear that much work is required at the Central Farm Campus as it prepares for a new intake of students in August 2018.

Calabash Caye Field Station: Making it More Sustainable

The leaders of the Environmental Research Institute (ERI) met with the University’s Senior Management to review the current business model of the Calabash Caye Field Station (CCFS) operations, with a view to making the necessary changes, so as to make this operation sustainable. All agreed that the CCFS was an important living laboratory for the current Natural Resource Management program and also the new Bachelor’s program in Marine Biology that will be launched very soon. President Sankat commended the ERI team on the proposals they presented and their approach to the initiative.

Females Continue to Lead in Relathon

The University of Belize held its annual Relathon on Sunday, 22nd of April 2018. The males had a total of 22 runners and the females had 24 runners. This year the Relathon began at 8:15am and a strong showing by the males had them arriving at the Belmopan junction by 10:00am. This strong start from the men slashed the females’ 20 mile lead in half with 48 miles to go for the males and 38 miles for the females remaining. Both teams became enthusiastic upon hearing of the other team’s location. Despite the best efforts by the males, the females won the Relathon this year. The males finished a minute behind the females.

The best runner for the females was Ansella Rodriguez, a 2017 UB graduate and Varsity athlete, who ran a mile in 6:43 minutes. Tivi Ramos distinguished himself as the best runner for the males after running a mile in 4:43 minutes. Ansella and Tivi received a trophy donated by the founder of the Relathon, Mr. Dudley Marshall, a UB alumnus. The females now have 20 wins and the males 18 wins. Kudos to both teams. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Harrison Pilgrim and President Clement Sankat presented the medals to the Teams at the ITVET Compound in Belize City.

The University thanks the students and alumni who participated and kept the longest UB tradition alive. Many thanks to the faculty, staff and members of the community who contributed tremendously to the event’s success especially Dean Perriott and her Team along with Mr. Francis Burns and his Team.

Say NO to Cyberbullying

The Faculty of Education and Arts held its second forum on Cyberbullying on April 23, 2018 at the Jaguar Auditorium. This year the focus was on sexting. Sexting is sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages, photographs or images, primarily between mobile phones. It may also include the use of a computer or any digital device.

UB students and high school students were informed on the dangers and consequences of cyberbullying. The presenters included Sole Meighan, President of Child Advisory Board (CAB), Councillor Jacklyn Burns, Mr. Kyle Miller from the Department of Youth Services, a representative from the US Embassy and Mr. Chester Williams, Deputy Commissioner of Police.

FEA Holds their Third Research Symposium with the aim of Breaking Barriers

The Faculty of Education and Arts Third Annual Symposium held on April 23, 2018 provided opportunities to share scholarly work promoting a culture of research and discourse in education. The theme of this year’s symposium was Breaking Barriers: Building on Success! Highlights included research by students on factors influencing students’ performance in mathematics, impact of attrition among secondary students in South Side Belize City. Students’ ability to clearly articulate ideas and use inferential statistics to present research findings illustrated that they are poised to critically analyse national challenges. In addition to presentation by students, the European Union Project Results were presented by Dr. Nestor Chan.

In the poster presentation section, Dr. Nicté Fuller Medina, Erson Moreira, and Kennion Moreira shared their findings on Building research capacity through service learning: notes from the Language, Culture and History project, Dr. Priscilla Brown Lopez presented the findings of the use of Problem Based Learning in Teacher Educational Institutions in Belize. Dr. Angel Cal shared joint research findings entitled, From the Eyes of Spanish Yucatan: The Battle of St. George’s Cay, 1798.

UB Promotions Committee Convenes

The UB Appointments Committee met for the first time on April 24, 2018. The Committee appointed by the President is considering the applications of Faculty for Senior promotion. The Committee is chaired by Vice President Dr. Mariot Simon and is constituted of several leaders of our University and external professors. The work of the Committee continues.

Dr. Romaldo Lewis Presents His Thesis

Dr. Romaldo Lewis, Lecturer in the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, recently completed his Doctoral Degree in Business Administration. His thesis was on ‘Statistical Clustering of the Micro, Small, Medium & Large Enterprise (MSMEL’s) in Belize, and Identification of the major constraints that the limits their creation, promotion and growth. He presented the results of the research on April 25, 2018.

His colleagues and family were also present to congratulate him. Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat and Vice President Dr. Mariot Simon attended the presentation and also commended Dr. Lewis on this achievement.

UB Holds Open Day, Earth Day and Multicultural Fair

The University of Belize had a plethora of activities for students and prospective students at its Central Campus on April 26, 2018. It was held under the theme “Embracing Higher Education, Sustainability and Purpose”. The day started with the ceremony for the Open Day where Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat welcomed everyone to the event and spoke of the importance of investing in a university education. The Deans also took the opportunity to speak on the new programs their faculties are launching. Dr. Gordon Holder, Campus Administrator of the Central Farm Campus spoke on the Bachelor of Agriculture that will commence in August and the importance of agriculture for the sustainability of Belize. Mr. Gilberto Magaña, a UB alumnus and now Aftercare Specialist at Belize INVEST, a unit of BELTRAIDE, spoke of his time at UB which he says was, “everything that I expected and more”. Dr. Santos Chicas, lecturer in the Faculty of Science and Technology, said that his education foundation at UB prepared him to excel when he went to study in the Republic of China (Taiwan). Prospective students then had the opportunity to learn more about the different programs, meet their future lecturers and Deans, and experience campus life for a day.

The Faculty of Science and Technology also simultaneously held its Earth Day celebration where it sought to create awareness of the importance of avoiding single-use plastics. The science students also had displays on the effects of pollution as well as exciting demonstrations that science can be fun. The Information Technology students also spoke on the parts of a computer and shared the knowledge they had gained thus far in the technological field. The Faculty of Education and Arts also had a Psychology of Learning Symposium as well. Students were able to view displays and presentations on the various learning theories and strategies used in the classrooms. FNAHSW faculty, staff and students also opened up the Med lab to students and visitors and also did some medical test. The Regional Language Center also treated the visitors to a multicultural fair where the international students showcased the culture, music, dance and food of their home countries. RLC currently has students from Cuba, Colombia Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Republic of China and Republic of China (Taiwan). The Medical Laboratory students in the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social Work were also celebrating Medical Laboratory Professionals Week and were providing free test with results available on the same day.

UB holds Faculty and Staff Day

“All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy” goes the saying, The University of Belize held a day for faculty and staff to have fun together at the Belmopan Campus. The day started with a social ride from Mile 31 George Price Highway to the Belmopan Campus. Then there was a brief ceremony where Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat invited all faculty and staff to join the fun and to build UB together, as there was much to be achieved in the exciting times.

There were competitions in lime and spoon, futsal, needle and thread, volleyball, and races. There was a special treat where employees could ‘pamper’ themselves with manicure, pedicure, and eyebrow shaping and tinting at special prices. Faculty and Staff were also gifted a special token for their service to UB and the President thanks the Director and Staff of the Human Resource Department for organizing the special event.

President meets with Student Leaders

Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat met with students’ representatives on April 27, 2018. The students considered matters pertaining to students’ projects for the Summer. They also spoke on students who have not met their financial obligations. They also provided their input for the 2018-2019 Academic Calendar. Student evaluation of teaching and the bookstore going electronic were also discussed. The students provided feedback on Sports Day. The possibility of student representation at CSUCA meetings was also considered. Also in attendance was Vice President, Dean of Student Affairs and Mr. Francis Burns, Director of Physical Plant, Projects and Facilities.

UB is Present at the NATS

The University of Belize participated in the National Agriculture and Trade Show where prospective students had the opportunity to learn about the new programs that will be offered for 2018-1 and took the opportunity to apply to the University of Belize for free. The UB Central Farm was present on both days selling their produce and engaging with students about the new BSc. In Agriculture. The other Faculty were present showcasing the different services that are available at UB and highlighting their respective faculties. The President represented the UB at the opening ceremony at the Ministry of Agriculture. The Minister congratulated UB on its development of the new BSc. Applied Agriculture Program.