From the President’s Desk – Volume 34 – February – June 2021


From the President’s Desk – February – June 2021

Volume 34

My Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

I am bringing to your attention this report, Volume 34, for your information. As we move closer to the end of the Semester II, I want to thank all of you for contributing to the success of our students and to the overall well-being of our University in this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last week there was a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the University of Belize and I shared many of the highlights of the achievements of our Faculty, Staff, Students and the University as a whole, which I am sharing with you now. Despite the pandemic era, and all of the changes we have had to adjust to, I wish to state that the University is alive and well and adapted to essentially an online environment. In fact, at my recent meeting with our Student Government leaders, they echoed the sentiment that our online teaching this semester was so much improved and hence my commendations once more to all Faculty and Students as well as our online Administrators.

I also wish to thank the outgoing Student Government leaders from all our campuses and note their generous grants of bursaries to students in need among other things. I congratulate and welcome our new Student Government leaders and note that they were sworn in on May 28, 2021. I wish to especially commend Mr. J Good, President of the Belize City Campus, who also discharged his responsibilities admirably on the Board of Trustees. I wish him and others who are leaving well in their future endeavors.

At the Board meeting, I appraised the Board on several matters including our financial state of affairs and wish to advise that we did experience a reduction in our Government subvention for the months of April and May but I cannot comment more at this time as we are awaiting formal communication from our line Ministry; however, we just have to continue managing our finances tightly in a very uncertain time. I also apprise the Board on what we have been observing with respect to applications for the new academic year – significantly falling applications. We are hopeful that in this month of June applications will increase significantly. Our student receivables continue to challenge us but I do commend the majority of our students who met their financial obligations to our University and progressed to their examinations.

You will be pleased to know that the Board also approved the Management’s recommendation that increments be restored when individually due, beginning on the 1st of August. Please see the communiqué from our Acting Director of Human Resources in the box. I also wish to advise that the Administration, together with our Board are working assiduously to fill the three vacant positions of Deans (FEA, FMSS, FST) and Directors (Finance and Human Resources) as these advertisements were recently closed. You will be advised on the successful candidates once the process has been completed and hopefully very soon.

I wish to advise, with regret, that one of our Employees, Mr. Carlos Choc of the Maintenance Department, under the leadership of Mr. F Burns, was injured in an accident in the Engineering Department in Belize City. I am pleased to note, however, that he is recovering at home and we hope that he makes a complete recovery and returns to our fold very soon. Just advising that we are preparing to return one of the Engineering buildings in Freetown Road, Belize City, to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology at their request. All of this is in preparation for the Engineering Department to eventually move to Belmopan by August 2022.

On another note, just last weekend we heard about the unfortunate robbery of Mr. Roy Polonio, Campus Administrator, Punta Gorda. This happened at his farm and thankfully he was not injured but severely traumatized. This all speaks to crime that surrounds us and I urge that each of us must continue to be vigilant. It is a timely reminder that as a University, our teaching, our research and our outreach should address some of the root causes of this scourge. A program of teaching and learning and outreach in Criminology/Criminal Justice would be important for our students and stakeholders as a whole.

I hope you find the report below interesting and good reading! I do thank our young Marketing & Communications team for assisting me in putting this together. Have a pleasant weekend and let us continue to build UB together.

Professor Clement Sankat
President
June 5, 2021


 

1st Gian Gandhi Memorial Lecture – “Economic Policies for Prosperity and Stability; Thoughts on the Future for Belize” by Dr Delisle Worrell

 

The University of Belize held its inaugural Gian Gandhi Memorial Lecture on February 25, 2021 entitled “Economic Policies for Prosperity and Stability; Thoughts on the Future for Belize”. Dr. Delisle Worrell, former Governor of the Barbados Central Bank, answered the question, “how does the quality of life in Belize compare internationally?” He also gave a brief discussion of the economic policy mix that works best in small open economies like Belize. Dr Worrell went over an analysis of economic growth in Belize over the past 3 decades and gave possible suggestions for policy for future economic prosperity.

 

 

 

Congratulations to Dr. Husaini

The University of Belize congratulates Dr. Danladi Husaini, Senior Lecturer of the Pharmacy Program Faculty of Health Sciences.

 

Dr. Husaini graduated and obtained his Ph.D. Degree in Public Health from the University Of South Africa (UNISA) on April 13, 2021.

 

The President and UB administration congratulates him on his major success!

 

 

Student Government Hosts Virtual Mayoral Debate in Punta Gorda

The Student Government of the Punta Gorda Campus organized and hosted a Virtual Mayoral Debate where two Mayoral candidates of the Punta Gorda Town along with a candidate for councillor made presentations. The debate took place on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. via the Zoom platform.

The event was conceptualized and organized by the current Student Government of the Punta Gorda Campus as a means of encouraging student participation in elections and promoting more social responsibility among university students.

 

The University of Belize Encourages Faculty, Staff & Students to Get Vaccinated

 

The University of Belize recognizes the importance of getting vaccinated to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Lisa Johnson, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences has taken the necessary steps to get vaccinated. She shared the following message: “One of our duties to our patients/clients/community is to make sure we are not transmitting any illnesses

to them. Take the steps to ensure a better health for all by vaccinating now.”

The Student Government, with the help from the Office of Student Affairs, hosted a COVID-19 Vaccine Symposium on April 22, 2021 via zoom, with medical advisors, Dr Natalia Beer – Ministry of Health & Wellness, as well as Dr. Fernando Cuellar – Belize Medical Associates, to educate the UB student body on the vaccine.

The University of Belize encourages all Faculty, Staff and Students to get vaccinated when it’s their turn to do so.

 

 

 

1st JICA Program Japanese Studies (JICA Chair) 2021 Lecture By: Dr. Nobuko KAYASHIMA, Senior Vice President of JICA

 

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in collaboration with the University of Belize, held its first online seminar

“Educational Development in Modernization in Japan and Ideas on the Future Cooperation with Belize” on March 19, 2021.

 

The main focus of the lecture, by Dr. KAYASHIMA, was to showcase how Japan was introduced to a modern educational system, transitioning into a technologically-driven society.

 

The President welcomed participants to the lecture and also concluded the program by reflecting on Japan’s development through education, particularly Science and Technology.

 

 

5th Annual Math Symposium

 On March 26, 2021, the Faculty of Science and Technology hosted the fifth Math Symposium entitled “Mathematics – Freedom Zone” via Zoom and Facebook.

The objectives of the Symposium were to:

  • Raise the awareness of the importance and applications of Mathematics in everyday life.
  • To emphasize the importance of Mathematics as a stepping stone to many other disciplines.
  • Highlight current Mathematical research being done in Belize and elsewhere.
  • Inspire faculty, students and the general community to engage in mathematics-related research/careers.

Presentations included:

  • Dr.  David Aguilar (Galen University, Belize) on “Mathematics for Rebels”
  • Dr. Minerva Brauss  & Dr. Daniel Brauss (Francis Marion University, SC, USA) on “Student Success through Holistic Learning in STEM”
  • Mr. Envic Castaneda (Belize Bureau of Standards) on “The Mathematics of Metrology”
  • Dr. Aaron Lewis (Former Assistant Professor at UB), on “An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)”
  • Ms. Yasmin Tzib (Student, University of Belize) on “Quality of Life among San Jose Succotz residents during COVID-19”
  • Ms. Taylor Boatwright, Ja’Nya Breeden and Jada Lytch (Students, Francis Marion University, SC, USA) on “At Least Squares Can Solve Fluid Flow”

 

Congratulations, Mrs. Thisbe Usher

Mrs. Thisbe Usher, Chair of Education and Arts (FEA), is the recipient of the 2021 Best Paper Student Award for the American Educational Research Association’s, Caribbean and African Studies in Education – Special Interest Group (AERA, CASE-SIG). She received the award for her research paper proposal entitled, “Belizean Educators’ Perceptions of Teacher Supervision and of a Supervision Model on Teachers’ Instructional Practices.”

 

Mrs. Usher presented her paper on April 12, 2021 at the AERA 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting.

 

UB President – Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat and Senior Managers at UB join the Faculty of Education & Arts in congratulating Mrs. Usher on this accomplishment.

 

 

Mrs Lydia Thurton at the Global Health Conversation Series

Mrs Lydia Thurton, Senior Lecturer and Department Chair, Allied Health, from the Faculty of Health Sciences, along with students from the Pharmacy program, participated in a Student Global Health Conversation Series entitled “Global Perspectives on fieldwork preparation by Universities in Belize and in the U.S.” This was hosted by the University of South Florida, USF Health on April 9, 2021.

 

 

 

 

Recent Publications by UB’s Very Own 

The following are the most recent publications by members of the University of Belize:

 

Dr. Philip Castillo, UB Assistant Professor

In collaboration with University colleagues at the University of the West Indies in St Augustine, Trinidad, and Cave Hill, Barbados, as well as with the University of Technology in Jamaica.

Dr Castillo co-authored two publications on health in the Caribbean, the first being based on the Caribbean countries and which can be viewed at: https://hqlo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12955-021-01734-8

 

By the Faculty of Health Sciences Pharmacy Team

Prostate cancer awareness, knowledge, and perception of screening among men aged 40–70 in the Belize district: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10389-021-01527-9

Over-The-Counter Sales of Antibiotics at Community Pharmacies in Belize: A Cross Sectional Simulated Client Visit study: https://doi.org/10.15342/ijms.2021.455

 

By Dr. Joyanne De Four-Babb, Ed.D, MBA, M.Ed., Assistant Professor

Making sense of spirituality in our academic lives through co-mentoring: Journal for the Study of Spirituality: Vol 0, No 0 (tandfonline.com): https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/20440243.2021.1898806

 

By Mr. Joaquin Magaña, FST Lecturer

in collaboration with professors from the Mexican National Fisheries and Aquaculture Institute, UAGro, CONACYT and CIBNOR,

This publication focuses on ecology and distribution of a species of fish, the Mojarra, in the Eastern Pacific and is entitled Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences: https://www.trjfas.org/abstract.php?lang=en&id=14797

 

By Dr. Apolonio Aguilar

Double tailed scorpiand-type calix[10]phyrin: Synthesis and proton-driven anion recognition

features. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0040402021003434

 

By Dr. Christopher De Shield, Assistant Professor, FEA

in collaboration with Mr. Gerardo Polanco, Sacred Heart College,

Succouring an Ixtabai: Zee Edgell’s Deployment of Belizean Folklore in The Festival of San Joaquin (1997). https://uottawa.scholarsportal.info/ottawa/index.php/rceh/article/view/5899

 

UB Social Work “COPING WITH COVID-19” Virtual Summit 2021

 

The UB Social Work Virtual Summit 2021, entitled “Coping with COVID-19”, was held on April 12, 2021 via the Zoom Platform. The Virtual Summit aimed at providing information and opening a conversation with partners/stakeholders to current crisis situation affecting Belize’s communities at various system levels.

 

The objective of the event was to sensitize participants and key social partners on coping strategies and treatments of trauma, anxiety, and stress, as well as to engage and recruit prospective social work students by showcasing the work being done by social workers in Belize.

The President congratulated the Chair, Mr Fermin Olivera, and his team for organizing this event.

 

Dr. Carla Barnett Appointed Next Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

On May 11, 2021, Dr Carla Barnett was appointed the next Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Dr. Barnett is the first woman and the first Belizean to be appointed to this post. She will replace Ambassador Irwin LaRocque and will assume office on August 15, 2021.

 

The President congratulated Dr. Barnett for such a special achievement and appointment.

 

UB Launches Recruitment Drive for the New Academic Year 2021

On March 31, 2021 the University of Belize launched its Recruitment drive for August 2021-1 with the President – Professor Clement Sankat, Director of Open Distance and Learning – Dr. Frieda Palma, University Registrar – Mrs. Rose Pineda, and Admissions Coordinator – Mrs. Camilla Barker, on the LoveFM Morning Show.

 

The Admissions Department, in collaboration with all Faculties, has been hosting live weekly forums via Zoom and Facebook.

 

Recruitment Work at the PG Central Park

On Monday April 26, 2021 Admissions/Records Assistant, Ms. Yesenia Figueroa, and the Punta Gorda Campus Administrator, Mr. Roy Polonio carried out a special recruitment campaign at the Punta Gorda Central Park where they promoted the UB online Bachelor Degree in Social Work (BSOW) program and advised interested persons about such pertinent matters as career options available to graduates of the program, financial requirements and application procedures for admission to the program in August 2021.

 

This outreach work is in connection with the ongoing joint recruitment efforts by the UB Faculty of Health Sciences and the Admissions Department to increase enrollment of students from southern Belize in our BSOW program. While working at the Central Park, Mr. Polonio and Ms. Figueroa also sought opportunities to continue advertising all programs offered by our National University.

 

Responses from the many people who visited the information booth were very encouraging thus the outreach campaign efforts slated for the PG Central Park are to intensify during months of May and June. The PG Campus’ special recruitment team remains grateful for the continued support received from President Sankat and from the University’s Departments of Admissions, Social Work and Marketing & Communications.

 

Information Technology Students Complete Work Experience and Professional Practice

The Department of Mathematics, Physics and Information Technology carried out its Information Technology (IT) internship program this semester and saw 28 Associates students (CMPS2992-Project) and 15 Bachelor students (CMPS4992-Professional Practice) successfully complete the courses. The associate’s course offers students a chance to gain real world working experience in various IT related areas, some of which included, junior developer, network administrator, and computer technicians among others. The students were placed at various host organizations for work over 9 weeks; every Tuesday and Thursdays (or remotely). The professional practice course at the bachelor level is more rigid and requires students to perform full time jobs, as would a regular employee of the host organization. Students work over 12 weeks (Mon-Fri) in positions such as Software Developer, System Administrator and Database Administrator among others. Given the pandemic most students worked remotely at organizations such as CARDI, The Belize Collection, A+ Computer Solutions, Ministry of Agriculture, ThinkTech, Westrac Ltd. and Caribbean Tires, just to name a few.

 

Since its inception this internship has enabled our students to perform at the highest level, and showcase to our stakeholders the type of skills they are gaining here at UB through our IT program. Every year students are held in high regards based on performance during the internship period and at the end of the course they are sought after by host and other organizations for permanent employment.

The MPIT Department, FST and UB wishes to thank all the host organizations for their continued collaboration with us and our internship program.

 

The University Mourns the Passing of Alejandro Pop, Math Education Major

The University of Belize regretted and mourned the sudden passing of a very promising Math Education Major, Mr. Alejandro Pop, who died under very unfortunate circumstances.

 

The President as well as the Board, the Administration, the Faculty and Staff, as well as our Student Governments and Students, shared in this grief, at the very unfortunate passing. All contributed significantly to ensure that Mr. Pop was given a dignified funeral in Toledo, where he was from.

 

The President also thanked the UB Grief Circle, which was facilitated by Mr. Fermin Olivera, for its support to the family and friends of Mr. Pop.

 

 

FMSS Research Conference

The Faculty of Management and Social Sciences held its 10th Annual Research Conference on Friday, April 30, 2021, with the theme, “Developing Belize: Research as a Gateway to Growth”. The keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Osmond Martinez, Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform.

 

 

The purpose of the conference was to highlight students’ thesis research papers which are based on Belize’s development. FMSS lecturer, Dr. Philip Castillo, presented on “Declining Religious Affiliations in Belize”. The President congratulated the Dean and his faculty on this 10th Anniversary conference and also the students who participated in this event.

 

 

FST Earth Day 

The Faculty of Science and Technology hosted a three-day seminar to celebrate Earth Day from April 21 – 23, 2021. Among those invited to speak were Mr. Rafael Manzanero, Executive Director at Friends for Conservation and Development; Dr. Kenrick Williams, Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management; and Ms. Kennedy Carrillo, Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation.  The event was hosted virtually via Zoom and Facebook.

 

FST MIS Conference 

 

The Faculty of Science and Technology held its 4th Annual Management Information Systems Conference 2021 on April 30, 2021. This year’s theme was “Selecting Appropriate Technology: Evidence from the Education Sector of Belize”. There were over 125 students from the University of Belize who conducted research regarding Learning Management Systems, which was utilized during the pandemic at educational institutions in Belize.

 

Thirty academic research papers were written, peer reviewed and presented at the conference, with the keynote address delivered by Hon. Louis Zabaneh, who is the Minister of State Education, Culture, Science, and Technology.

 

UB’s COVID-19 Reflections Video 2021

On May 7, 2021 the University of Belize released a COVID-19 Reflections Video where various Heads of Departments shared how the COVID-19 affected their Department. The University faced much difficulty whereby finances were severely reduced; students were no longer able to attend classes face-to-face; all classes had to be delivered fully online; and the University also lost one of their own, Faculty of Education and Arts Dean, Dr. Nestor Chan.

This reflections video can be viewed at: https://www.ub.edu.bz/ubs-covid-19-reflections-2021/

  

Students Urged to Meet their Financial Obligations to the University of Belize for Semester II

The Department of Finance promoted a number of payment plans for students in support of our students to meet their obligations before their final examinations. In the final analysis, students who met at least 50% of their tuition and fees were allowed to sit their exams, bearing in mind the country’s current financial situation due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, students must settle their bills in order for them to receive their semester grades.

The President thanks the very many students and their parents/sponsors who met their financial obligations with UB.

 

 

 

A Visit from the Chairman of the UB Board of Trustees and the CEO of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science & Technology

In Preparation for a move from Engineering in Freetown Road, Belize City, to the Belmopan Campus, the Chairman of the UB Board of Trustees – Mr. Anthony Sylvestre, and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology – Dian Castillo Maheia, toured both the Freetown Road (Belize City) and the India Belize Center For Engineering on February 23, 2021. They were shown around by Director of Physical Plant, Projects and Facilities and the Vice President.

 

Water Purification System Installed at the University of Belize, Central Farm Campus, by South Korea

The University of Belize Central Farm Campus received a donation of a water purification system from South Korean Missionaries, Pastor Bong Choi and Ms Esthera. The official inauguration of this facility took place on April 17, 2021.

 

The President in his speech thanked the Rainwater Research Centre of Seoul National University in South Korea, especially Professor Mooyoung Han and his team for most appropriate, impacting work from a famous University. He also noted that the UBCF family will be very happy for this Project as the Farm has had a very difficult problem where it lacked safe drinking water and he lauded our South Korean friends.

 

 

Visit from H.E. Ambassador Mr. Kazuhiro IRYU of Japan

 H.E. Ambassador Mr. Kazuhiro IRYU of Japan visited the University of Belize and met with UB Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Anthony Sylvestre, and with members of the Administrative team, to discuss possible partnership and scholarship opportunities for faculty and staff. Along with the Ambassador, there were also representative from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Resident Representative – Mrs. Michiyo HASHIGUCHI and Volunteer Coordinator – Mr. Tomoyuki AONO, who expressed interest in supporting the University in the areas of Science and Technology.

 

JICA’s work involves reducing disparities and disaster preparedness. JICA has already started assisting the University through the SDG Global Leadership Scholarship program whereby the objective is to develop the human resource capacity.

 

During the Ambassador’s and JICA representatives’ visit, a tour of key facilities within the UB Belmopan Campus was conducted. This included the Medical School, the Regional Language Center, as well as the Library.

 

The Chairman of the Board then accompanied the Ambassador and the JICA representatives to the UB Central Farm Campus where they met with UBCF’s Director, Mrs. Zoe Zetina, for another tour.

 

The aim of this visit was to look at areas for possible collaboration with JICA in the future.

 

 

UB Awards 34 Tuition Assistance Bursaries

The University of Belize is pleased to award 34 Tuition Assistance Bursaries to deserving students.  This Tuition Assistance Bursary program gives financial assistance to full time students, and supports them to meet their tuition expenses and can cover up to 25 % of the cost of tuition in any given semester.

 

These awards mark the second disbursement under this program and the UB is hopeful to continue to provide this assistance to students in the upcoming Semester 1 in the new academic year 2021-2022.

 

The University congratulates the following students who received awards:

 

Name of Student

 

  1. Dina Avila
  2. Luis Ayala
  3. Sheena Cab
  4. Freddy Chable
  5. Thearde Chavarria
  6. Jeremiah Che
  7. Rosaime Chi
  8. Jermain Dominguez
  9. Melissa Ellington
  10. Faith Flowers
  11. Tatyana Guild
  12. Kevin Herdia
  13. Jenny Itza
  14.  
  15. Jenia Jenkins
  16. Vercine Jimenez
  17. Itzel Kotch
  18. Deeksha Lakhani
  19. Abdias Mai
  20. Canid Mendez
  21. Edras Mijangos
  22. Karla Mis
  23. Julio Noble
  24. Steven Palma
  25. Carlicia Petillo
  26. Ashley Perez
  27. Nella Requena
  28. Dinika Rowland
  29. Kaleah Rowland
  30. Tanisha Sedacy
  31. Collin Smith
  32. Ana Suazo
  33. Henry Teck
  34. Danny Zul
  35. Erica Zuleta

The University of Belize thanks the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science & Technology for the grant which made this support to students possible.

Students who are interested in this program for Semester 1 of the new academic year may submit an application through the link below: https://www.ub.edu.bz/admissions/finance-your-education/#scholarships

 

The President Meets with the Student Government in Preparation for the Final Examinations and to Close off the 2020-2 Semester

 

The President met with the Student Government in preparation for the final examinations and to close off the 2020-2 semester. The student leaders assured the President of their preparedness for online education which was much improved compared to the previous semester. The students also thanked UB as they had a good experience with this teaching modality.

Students did, however, express concern with what should happen for the new coming semester. The President assured the students they will have a mixed form of delivery, especially in the areas of FST and FHS, where there are significant demands for practical work.

 

Students felt that the online education gives working students, as well as students who live outside of the campus locations, a form of flexibility. The President endorsed these sentiments.

 

Student Government Elections

The Office of Student Affairs facilitated this year’s Student Government Elections, which took place on May 20, 2021. After virtual campaigning done by SG candidates through the use of visuals, such as flyers and videos – which were posted on social media – there was victory for various students from all three campuses.

 

On May 25, 2021, the new UB Student Government 2021-2023 was announced via Facebook and email, with photos of all student leaders along with their titles.

The President thanked the Dean of Student Affairs for managing this exercise with the creativity that is required in this time.

 

Faculty of Education & Arts Congratulates Dr. De Four-Babb

The Faculty of Education and Arts is pleased to announce that Dr. Joyanne De Four-Babb will again be serving as Co-Chair for the Caribbean and African Studies in Education SIG.  Dr. De Four-Babb was selected as the winner in their recent election. Her term for this position began on May 1, 2021, and will end in April 2023. Dr. De Four-Babb had previously served as Co-Chair for the term 2020-2021.

 

Dr. De Four-Babb’s position will provide good visibility for the University of Belize, and she hopes that faculty members will submit proposals for American Educational Research Association (AERA) 2022.

 

Dr. Joyanne De Four-Babb’s re-election is indicative of the exemplary work that she does in the area of research. She is truly an inspiration to the Faculty of Education and Arts. The President adds his congratulations to Dr. Babb’s re-election to this position. 

 

 

Work on the SAGE Project Continues

 

The Central Farm UBCF has been working with our CICan partners (VIU, Parkland, Memorial in Canada) in advancing the Skills to Access the Green Economy (SAGE) project. They have been developing a curriculum for Climate Smart Agriculture and Agroforestry while we have had training programs in Marketing & recruitment, gender issues, students with disabilities, etc.

 

UB and COL Launch Training in Online Assessments

 

On April 19, 2021, the University of Belize and the Commonwealth of Learning launched their training in “Designing and Developing Online Assessments” via Zoom. Among the attendees and speakers was Mr. Fermin Magaña, a representative of the UB Board of Trustees. President Sankat was also in attendance and gave the welcoming remarks, while Dr. Mairette Newman, a representative of the Commonwealth of Learning, gave more information about the organization. Dr. Tashane Haynes-Brown, Lecturer in Teacher Education of the UWI, Mona, gave an overview of the course.

 

 

 

President’s Presentation at the University of the West Indies Webinar

 

President Sankat presented at the Improving Food Packaging Practices in CARICOM Virtual Webinar, University of the West Indies on May 17, 2021. The topic of his presentation was “Postharvest considerations in the fresh produce supply chain (harvesting, field handling, packinghouse, transportation and storage activities)”. And there were just over a 100 participants from all our CARICOM countries, including Belize.

The President once more thanked the Commonwealth of Learning represented by its Vice President, Dr. K Balasubramanian for their steady support of the University of Belize.

UBCF received a consignment of IT equipment (laptops, etc.) from this project. The work on this project with the ITVETs (Stann Creek and Toledo) continues into the next few years.

 

The University of Belize’s Faculty & Staff Long Service Awards

On May 28, 2021 the University of Belize released its virtual Faculty & Staff Long Service Awards ceremony video. The University recognized Faculty and Staff who have been working at UB for the past 5, 10, 15 and 20 years.

 The President, in his address, particularly singled out twenty-year awardees who have been with us from the very beginning of the University, which also celebrates 20 years.

 

Names of Awardees

5 Years

  • John Baptist
  • Emeri Cayetano
  • Glendamae Teck
  • Edwin Williams
  • Ninon Martinez
  • Christopher De Shield
  • Ainsley Ferguson
  • Zeida Franco- Leon
  • Cheng-En Huang
  • Shanera Sanchez
  • Josiah Santos
  • Alia Tzul
  • Rajeanna Webster
  • Thisbe Usher
  • Rebecca Chun
  • Cleavon Diego
  • Kieran Ryan
  • Orlando Portillo

10 Years

  • Tyrone Francis
  • Hertha Gentle
  • Ausencio Olivera
  • Arlenie Rogers
  • Anthony Bautista
  • Patricia Requena-Lopez
  • Melanie Smith
  • Destine Swaso
  • Kenrick Ramclam
  • Clifford Cacho
  • Victor Castillo
  • Tito Melvin

15 Years

  • Vincent Palacio
  • Maria Alvarez
  • Leandra Ricketts
  • Elma Kay
  • Violet Neal
  • Justina Oh
  • Feliciana Torres
  • Lily Gomez-Mahung

20 Years

  • Martha Jonch
  • Sharret Yearwood
  • Kevin Tucker
  • Lydia Harris-Thurton
  • Bernard Watler
  • Denise Robinson
  • Eda Arzu
  • Leonard Mortis
  • Beverly Faber
  • Kevin Geban
  • Jeffrey Jones
  • Jacqueline Noralez
  • Pedro Carrillo
  • Daren Brown
  • Noemi Polanco
  • John Salam
  • Myrna Teck- Rivero
  • Latha Thomas
  • Nadine Tun
  • Orlando Palma
  • Somanadevi Thiagarajan
  • Cesar Ross
  • Pio Saki
  • Lisa Ramirez
  • Ridhma Requena
  • Eden Garcia
  • Carola Rejon
  • Michelle Munnings
  • Isidora Espadas
  • Rose Pineda
  • Olga Manzanero
  • Evelyn Canto

The video can be viewed at: https://www.ub.edu.bz/icymi-the-university-of-belizes-faculty-and-staff-long-service-award-ceremony/

 

Teaching Modality for the New Academic Year

 

The University of Belize wishes to inform both new and returning students about the teaching and learning modalities for the new academic year, beginning Semester I, August 1, 2021.

  • Programs in the Faculty of Education and Arts (FEA) will continue to be delivered online. Internships will be by mixed modality (face-to-face and online).
  • Programs in the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences (FMSS) will be mostly online with some supportive face-to-face interactions. All internships will be face-to-face.
  • Programs in the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) will be by mixed modality. All FST laboratory courses will be face-to-face.
  • Programs in the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) will be face-to-face – laboratory courses, clinical clerkships and practica while theory courses will be mostly online, with some blended.

The University Registrar has advised that the first semester schedule will be open for viewing on 2nd July, 2021 and hence students will be able to see courses and modality of delivery at that time.

 

Students who would like to know more on a particular course can call the relevant Faculty Office.  

FEA 822-1000 ext. 350

FMSS 822-1000 ext. 144

FST 822-1000 ext. 414

FHS 822-1000 ext. 320

 

The University of Belize looks forward to receiving both new and returning students for the new academic year and we thank all our students, parents and our Faculty and Staff for working together with us to manage within this pandemic era so as to ensure our mutual success. We will engage you face-to-face or in an online modality or in a blended way, striving to engage you wherever you may be in Belize. As we try to manage with the COVID-19 pandemic and its uncertainties, let’s continue to work together to make your future at UB a success.

 

Office of the President

June 5, 2021

NOTICE – Teaching Modality for the New Academic Year


June 3, 2021

Teaching Modality for the New Academic Year


The University of Belize wishes to inform both new and returning students about the teaching and learning modalities for the new academic year, beginning Semester I, August 1, 2021.


  • Programs in the Faculty of Education and Arts (FEA) will continue to be delivered online. Internships will be by mixed modality (face-to-face and online).
  • Programs in the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences (FMSS) will be mostly online with some supportive face-to-face interactions. All internships will be face-to-face.
  • Programs in the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) will be by mixed modality. All FST laboratory courses will be face-to-face.
  • Programs in the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) will be face-to-face – laboratory courses, clinical clerkships and practica while theory courses will be mostly online, with some blended.

The University Registrar has advised that the first semester schedule will be open for viewing on 2nd July, 2021 and hence students will be able to see courses and modality of delivery at that time.


Students who would like to know more on a particular course can call the relevant Faculty Office.

FEA –  822-1000 ext 350

FMSS – 822-1000 ext 144

FST –  822-1000 ext 414

FHS – 822-1000 ext 320


The University of Belize looks forward to receiving both new and returning students for the new academic year and we thank all our students, parents and our Faculty and Staff for working together with us to manage within this pandemic era so as to ensure our mutual success. We will engage you face-to-face or in an online modality or in a blended way, striving to engage you wherever you may be in Belize. As we try to manage with the COVID-19 pandemic and its uncertainties, let’s continue to work together to make your future at UB a success.


Thank you for your attention.

 

Office of the President

June 3, 2021

 

To view/download the notice please click here

Join Our Team! Vacancies Exist for Deans + Finance Director + HR Director


DEANS

Faculty of Management & Social Sciences (FMSS)
Faculty of Education & Arts (FEA)
Faculty of Science & Technology (FST)

Summary of Responsibilities

The Dean is a senior manager of the University of Belize who reports to the Vice President and is the Executive Head of the Faculty concerned. As the academic leader, is responsible for the strategic positioning and pursuit of the strategic goals of the Faculty as derived from the Transformational Plan 2017-2022. The successful accomplishment of these aims requires the appropriate engagement with the relevant offices of the University such as Finance, Human Resources, Information and Communication Technologies, Open Distance and Learning, Quality Assurance, Facilities, Security, etc.

The exercise of leadership and managerial responsibility includes:

  • Positioning the Faculty within the national educational policy framework;
    Positioning the Faculty within the core business of the University with regard to teaching, research, and outreach/community interaction;
  • Curriculum review and development to meet national needs, developing and driving the research agenda of the Faculty, seeking external funding opportunities, promoting the Faculty’s work through effective outreach;
  • Quality management in the Faculty: students, curriculum, examinations, quality review, progress on accreditation, etc.;
    Ensuring the well being of staff and students within the Faculty environment;
  • Semester and annual reporting as a minimum, of the Faculty’s performance to the President and Vice President;
  • Participating and contributing to the senior management deliberations of the University on a regular basis and at the Academic Council;
  • Achieving the enrollment, graduation and financial management targets of the Faculty;
  • Marketing the Faculty nationally, regionally and internationally.

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum of a Ph.D. Degree in a field directly related to the Faculty;
    Research and development experience;
  • Experience in teaching in the relevant areas of the disciplines of the Faculty;
  • Experience in academic, professional administration and academic advising and mentoring;
  • At least 10 years in a senior teaching or academic administration, research, or leadership position.

Director of Finance

Summary of Responsibilities
The Director of Finance reports to the President of the University and engages with all the offices of the University including Deans and Directors. The Director of Finance has the responsibility for the development and execution of the University’s annual budgets; managing income from varied sources such as tuition and fees, Government subventions, in addition to managing all areas of expenditure over the course of its operating cycle. The Director would also manage endowment and other benefaction funds, capital grants and project related income and expenditure. The Director of Finance also engages with key external stakeholders in the public sector such as the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, Ministry of Finance, Banking institutions and the private sector, as well as with the University’s external auditor. The Director of Finance is also responsible for the timely completion of quarterly and annual financial reports and external audit reports.

SCOPE of Responsibilities

  • Manages the budget including income, expenditure, cash flow, payroll, purchasing and receivables etc. in accordance with the plans established in the Operational Plan and the University’s strategy for achieving a balanced budget.
  • Is responsible for Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and the Treasury function and asset management.
  • Production of timely, accurate, financial statements and analyses including annual, audited financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.
  • Oversees the implementation of a fully computerized financial management system that interfaces with other systems in the institution (in particular, the Human Resources management, payroll, and student affairs management systems).
  • Reporting to the President of the University and engaging with Senior Managers, Directors, Deans, the GOB, Student Governments, financial institutions etc. so as to ensure the good financial management of the University.

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum of a Master’s Degree in Finance, Accounting and/or equivalent
  • Professional certification in accounting would be a distinct asset.
  • Highly motivated, self-driven, resourceful individual, interested primarily in the development of the University of Belize and willing to work in a challenging environment with over 5,000 students.
  • Experienced professional with wide-ranging work-performance backgrounds of management and leadership in the financial area.
  • A good track record in institutional development and management in a diverse institution, together with an appreciation of the peculiar requirements of a tertiary-level teaching and research institution committed to the development of Belize through teaching, research and service;
  • Familiarity with the processes and procedures of bilateral and multilateral funding agencies and with the preparation/evaluation of research/consultancy/ project proposals would be desirable.
  • Performance-focused, output- and outcome-oriented, people-friendly, and willing and capable of encouraging high level performance from subordinates;
  • Emphasis in candidate-selection would be placed on demonstrated track-records of high level financial leadership;
    Student centered;
  • Manage the people, the budget as well as other assets of the Department of Budget and Financial Management.
  • Develops appropriate work plans and accountabilities.

COMPENSATION
Commensurate with the level of qualification and experience.

Director of Human Resources

Summary of Responsibilities

The Director of Human Resources reports to the President of the University and engages with the Offices of the Vice President, the Deans, Directors and Chairs of the University. The Director is also the point person for liaising and engaging with the recognized Union in the University on all IR matters. The key role of the Director is to provide overall strategic human resource leadership and Industrial Relations functions of the University of Belize and to also demonstrate exemplary management of these functions.

Job Responsibilities Major responsibilities include the following:

  • Strategic leadership and direction for the University, so as to ensure that the Human resources of the University are aligned with the needs of the various functionary Offices and consistent with the University’s Transformational Plan.
    Planning, administering and managing a full-scope HR program including staffing, recruitment, classification and employee compensation, employee contracts, performance evaluations, merit promotions, including developing strategic planning goals for the University.
  • Providing expert advice and input to the University’s leadership, faculty and staff including developing options and recommendations to resolve difficult HR matters and complex employee and industrial relations problems.
    Leading negotiations, monitoring execution, grievance procedures and appeals, contract administration, employee discipline and related matters.
  • Monitoring and evaluating HR programs to ensure they comply with the applicable laws, rules or regulations of Belize and are compatible with the University’s mission and strategic planning goals and its HR policies and programs.
  • Embracing and leading change in a proactive manner, with the sensitivity to the interrelationships between and among different organizational stakeholders and to the management relationships within the University. Ensuring a good and healthy industrial relations climate within the University, driven by best practices in HR and IR.
  • Leading and managing the HR Office including its staff, assigning duties and measuring performance, planning and executing the approved budget, delivering training functions, managing the health insurance scheme, gratuities and pensions, loans, recognition and awards together with overall staff engagement programs.

Job Qualifications
Minimum of a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management, Labour Relations or Industrial Relations, together with proven experience as an HR Director/Manager for an organization with large numbers of employees.

Skills/Competencies

  • Knowledge of the Labour Laws of Belize and good industrial relations practices
  • Contract management, compensation and administration
  • Records maintenance
  • Performance measurement and monitoring
  • Health Insurance and Pension schemes
  • Conflict resolution and mediation
  • Knowledge of compensations schemes, rewards and recognition
  • Experience in collective bargaining agreements
  • Ability to supervise and train employees to support the work of their Departments, including organizing, prioritizing and scheduling work assignments
  • Negotiation skills
  • Multitasking skills
  • Strong interpersonal and communications skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community

COMPENSATION
Commensurate with the level of qualification and experience.

 

Interested Persons are Invited to Apply And View Full Job Descriptions:

Online: https://www.ub.edu.bz/work-at-ub/

Or by Mail, Email or Courier:
Office of the President
P.O. Box 340
University of Belize
Humming Bird Avenue
Belmopan City, Cayo District, Belize

Queries may be addressed to:

[email protected] OR +(501) 822-3680

Deadline to Apply
21st May, 2021
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

 

Join in on the discussion this Friday, March 19, 2021 at 8:30 a.m.!


1st JICA Program Japanese Studies (JICA Chair) 2021

Lecture By: Dr. Nobuko KAYASHIMA, Senior Vice President of JICA

“Educational Development in Modernization in Japan And Ideas on the Future Cooperation with Belize”

March 19, 2021 | 8:30 a.m.

Join Zoom Meeting

http://bit.ly/JICA_UB_March_2021

Meeting ID: 992 4099 6786 | Passcode: 247130

…………………………………………………..

What to Expect:

  …………………………………………………..
  
For Any Questions Please Contact
Mrs. Marvia Alcoser-Dubon, Administrative Assistant
Japan International Cooperation Agency – JICA Belize
Office: +(501) 223-4404/223-2263 | Mobile: +(501) 600-3672

Be Part of the 1st Gian Gandhi Memorial Lecture on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 12:00 p.m.!


The University of Belize
Presents

The 1st Gian Gandhi Memorial Lecture 2021

Delivered by Dr DeLisle Worrell
Former Governor of Central Bank, Barbados

“Economic Policies for Prosperity and Stability; Thoughts on the Future for Belize”

Join Us on Zoom
https://bit.ly/1stGGandhi2021
Meeting ID: 948 3579 7540 | Passcode: 413807

February 25, 2021 | 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Watch Live on TV and Facebook at
Love FM News & Music Power
Plus TV Belize
University of Belize

Don’t miss it!

For more information please email [email protected]

From the President’s Desk – Volume 33 – January – February 2021


My dear colleagues, I am pleased to report to you on a number of important matters pertaining to the operations of our University and these are shared below. I am very heartened with the smooth start of this Semester with respect to online teaching and learning using the Moodle platform and this comes from all the reports that I have received. I want to commend Faculty and our students, together with our Administrators and my hope is that we will see this semester and the academic year to a successful end despite all the challenges that have arisen from COVID-19. I will continue to stay in touch with you on important matters that are occurring or impacting on our University.

Professor Clement Sankat, President

February 6, 2021

 

Our New and Returning Board Members

Further to my communication on February 2, 2021, I am pleased to share with you a fuller description of all our Board of Trustees, both new and returning members. Once more, I congratulate them on their appointment and to thank the Hon. Minister of Education, Culture, Science & Technology, Hon. Francis Fonseca, for naming Board Members that bring a wealth of professional, business and governmental experiences to provide direction and leadership to the University of Belize. Of course, I am heartened that there is a blend of new and returning Board members to serve us. The full listing of our Board is given below.

The Board met for the first time on January 22, 2021, where Mr Sylvestre was elected as Chairman and Major Jones was elected as Vice Chairman.

 

President Sankat Speaks at the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago’s (ACTT’s) Forum, and at the 32nd COBEC Winter Conference

The President engaged on a panel discussion mounted by the ACTT on January 8, 2021, and addressed the issue of “Leading Tertiary Education Institutional Capacity Building through a Time of Crisis”. In a similar vein, the President also spoke at the 32nd COBEC Winter Conference on February 4, 2021 on the subject “Navigating the Crisis of the Pandemic, University of Belize – Lessons learned and projecting the immediate future.” The text of this presentation will be uploaded shortly to our UB website. Both conferences were held virtually.

 

 

The India Belize Center for Engineering

Our Belmopan Campus (UB) received a very short visit from the High Commissioner of India to Belize, based in Mexico City, Ambassador Manpreet Vohra. He was accompanied by the Honorary Council for India to Belize, Mr Arun Hotchandani. Mr Francis Burns, our Director of Physical Plant, Projects and Facilities and our Director of Institutional Advancement, Mr Arnulfo Kantun, gave them a brief tour of the facilities and all the work that we have done to bring this engineering laboratory/workshop to a near completion. The final phase of the project involves training the trainers in Belize, from our Engineering Faculty and other institutions. However, this will only be achieved when the pandemic eases so that the facilitators can travel from India.

 

Congratulations to Mr Danladi Husaini on Completing the Requirements for his Ph.D.

We have just been informed that Mr Danladi Chiroma Husaini, Senior Lecturer of the Pharmacy program, from the Faculty of Health Sciences, has completed the requirements for his Ph.D. degree in Public Health from the University of South Africa (UNISA), which is to be awarded. The title of his thesis was “Guidelines on the Use of Indigenous-Western Anti-hypertensive Therapies in Belize”. This was accepted on the 25th of January, 2021. All of us join in congratulating Mr Husaini on this fine achievement and we expect that his degree will be formally conferred shortly. Sincere congratulations.

 

 

UB Welcomes New Quality Assurance Director, Dr Marcia Commissiong

I am very pleased to advise that Dr Marcia Commisiong, who was appointed as the Director of Quality Assurance some time ago, was finally able to travel from Jamaica and has arrived safely in Belmopan. Dr Commisiong is currently in self-quarantine but has already begun to engage with relevant leaders to familiarize herself with the state of Quality Assurance at our University. I look to your welcome and support of our Director as we continue on this important task of building quality in our academic environment at UB such that we can move to seeking accreditation within the next couple of years. Dr Commisiong brings to UB considerable Caribbean experiences in the areas of Quality Assurance and Accreditation, as can be seen in her profile below.

Dr Marcia Commissiong has had a very diverse working experience in the public sector spanning more than 30 years and over 18 years as a quality assurance professional in higher education. In addition to quality assurance, Marcia’s areas of expertise include institutional and programme accreditation, systems and process management, teaching of adult learners, and the physical sciences (Chemistry).

Marcia’s passion for quality assurance and accreditation has been evident in her former positions of Accreditation Officer at the University Council of Jamaica, and Manager, Quality Assurance at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). At the University Council of Jamaica, Marcia provided technical support towards the improvement of institutional management and programme offerings at higher education institutions through a registration and accreditation process. At the UTT, Marcia was responsible for monitoring and evaluating quality assurance processes against standards for registration and accreditation and assisted with the preparation of the institution’s self-study document. Marcia was also responsible for ensuring that the quality management system (QMS) was responsive to the needs of stakeholders and developed methods that measured the performance of the QMS.

Marcia holds a PhD in Education specializing in Learning, Instruction, and Innovation from Walden University and her research explored student engagement, self-regulation, satisfaction, and success in online learning environments. She also taught Organic Chemistry for six years as an adjunct faculty member at the college level. Marcia has delivered two webinars for members of the Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education entitled “Enhancing Quality and Accountability through Quality Audits and Facilities Reviews” and “Lessons Learned: Teaching in Blended and Online Learning Environments”. Recently, she facilitated two cohorts of the Commonwealth of Learning’s course on Quality Assurance in Blended Learning for the Caribbean Higher Education Context.

Marcia’s hobbies include playing the piano and listening to classical and contemporary music, reading, mentoring young persons, and watching sporting activities particularly track and field events.

Dr Commisiong will report directly to the Vice President and her office is located on the ground floor of the main Administration building. She can be reached at 822-1000 ext. 211/214.

 

The President and Senior Managers Congratulate the New UBFSU Executive

We were very pleased to be informed that the UBFSU has elected a new Executive, as shown below:

The Administration looks forward to working with our colleagues on this new executive and we wish them success in their term in office. At the same time, as President, I wish to thank the former executive, led by Dr Pio Saqui, for their work and achievements during their term in office, and especially in having the UBFSU officially recognized as a union and the Agreement forged with the University to treat with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Meeting with Student Leaders

The President and Senior Managers, including our Director of Open Distance and Learning – Dr. Freida Palma, ICT Director – Mr. Abdulaziz Sanderson, Registrar – Mrs. Rose Pineda, and Dean of Student Affairs – Dr. Martin Cuellar, met with the Student Government leaders, Mr. Steve Good and Kimberly Young from the Belize City Campus; Indira Coleman, Cindy Salam and Macklovio Ack from the Punta Gorda Campus; and Kelsey Coc and Jocelyne Chun from the Belmopan Campus on February 2, 2021. The meeting received a report from each of the student leaders on their experiences since the beginning of this semester. It was heartening to hear from our student leaders that our teaching and learning “online” has gotten off to a much improved start compared to the challenges of last semester. And once more, I thank all our Faculty and Administrative support for ensuring this and look forward to its strengthening as the semester progresses. If there was one concern expressed from our student leaders then this had to do with more responsive and timely feedback to any queries that they may have posed. The student leaders were happy with the start and especially with the performance of the Moodle LMS (Learning Management System) platform. The President applauded the students for their special initiative of making scholarships available to deserving students of UB.

PR – Newly Reconstituted Board of Trustees for the University of Belize


PRESS RELEASE
February 2, 2021
For Immediate Release
Newly Reconstituted Board of Trustees for the University of Belize

The University of Belize is pleased to announce the names and designations of its recently reconstituted Board of Trustees. On the 1st of December, 2020, the University received information from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology naming seven (7) new members to the Board of Trustees. A meeting of this newly reconstituted Board, new and continuing (8) members, was convened by the Secretary of the Board and President of UB, Professor Clement Sankat, on the 22nd of January, 2021 and in accordance with the UB Act of 2000. At that meeting, a new Chairman, Mr. Anthony Sylvestre Jr. was elected while Major Lloyd A. Jones was elected as Vice Chairman.
The University of Belize congratulates the Chairman and the Vice Chairman and all the new members of the Board, and also thanks the returning members for their continued support.
At the meeting, the Board expressed its great desire to further the development of the University as the National Institution and echoed the sentiments that this can bring tremendous opportunities for Belize’s young people and Belize’s own advancement. The new Board also thanked the former Board of Trustees for its work in advancing the cause of UB.
Below are the names and designations of the full Board of Trustees.

New Appointments

Returning Members

Professor Clement Sankat, Ph.D.
President

END.
To View/Download the Press Release Please CLICK HERE