4th Annual FST Science Open Day and Expo


The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) of the University of Belize (UB) held the 4th Annual FST Science Open Day on November 22, 2017 at the UB Central Campus. The expo involved participation of the FST’s Agricultural Department; Engineering Department; Science Department and the Math, Physics & Information Technology Department. The purpose of the event was to highlight the programs of UB, the work of our students and to get people interested in science from an early age.  Students from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions were invited to attend the science fair. Stakeholders and partners from Government and the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) also brought out their staff to participate in the event. Students could see firsthand the technology and work available in this field. 

The theme for 2017 “Innovate, Experiment and Invest” was prominent as the 20 stakeholders that joined the student booths did not disappoint. The Engineering students showcased architectural models built from “macaroni sticks” during a recent competition in Quintana Roo, Mexico.  Building, construction, floor plans and house models developed by students were also on display while others concentrated on the electrical work learned in the classroom.

The Science Department showcased several programs. The Natural Resource Management program showcased GIS technology, maps and models that the students created in their courses while others displayed bioenergy and soil erosion. While students were showcasing very visible threats such as climate change, others went where the naked eye can’t see and into the beautiful world of microbes, amoebas and the less than appreciated world of invertebrates.

The Chemistry and Physics Departments destroyed the idea that science is not fun. Students created a distillery and executed different chemical reactions that resulted in the silver mirror and another group demonstrated electrophoresis, a DNA separation technique. Others appealed to the palate by making ice cream using liquid nitrogen, and the science of other products including yogurt, wine and spirits; and another set created a hologram with coloured shadows. The Environmental Club demonstrated recycling techniques and the Math Club solved an equation that revealed mathematics can be fun. The IT department showcased apps and websites students developed and creations made using Raspberry Pi technology.

The schools who came to learn about what UB had to offer included high schools from the Capital Belmopan, San Ignacio and from the north of the country, Corozal Community College 6th form.  Juliane Pasos, the Dean of the FST says it was a very successful event and “it has room for growth. We look forward to making it bigger and better every year. We have received excellent feedback from our stakeholders who participated in the fair.  Their booths were inundated with students who came around and asked a lot of relevant questions. Their presence demonstrated to students where science and technology is being applied within the realm.”

For example Wildlife Conservation Society showed students the use of SMART Technology and how its application involving the use of GPS and data can assist the Belize Fisheries Department and the Forest Department to track movement of fishers, what type of catch, and timber extraction throughout the country. These entities can also draw upon the data generated by partner institutions to generate real-time countrywide analysis that would have otherwise been difficult to gather.

Dean Pasos was also particularly honored because, “UB is very proud that a lot of its past students were here working in their capacity; showing that UB is meeting or is instilling demand in the country. Our past students are working in these institutions and schools that were present at the event. This shows that UB is filling the workforce demand.”

UB President Clement Sankat believes in the growth of science and technology as potential for the future of Belize. President Sankat says, “The world around us is driven by Science & Technology and the UB must be a force for training and research in this arena. Our staff and students are doing good work and Belize needs to appreciate the importance of this for its future well being.”                                                           

 

Building International Partnerships at UB for Student Advancement: The UB-Canada Exchange Program


The University of Belize (UB) has relationships with numerous international learning institutions that have resulted in solid Memoranda of Understanding that improve cultural and educational knowledge between countries. For over a decade, UB students have represented Belize in exchange programs with Canada.  On Thursday, November 14th, 2017 UB President Clement Sankat signed an agreement with Victoria Island University of British Columbia, Canada to further promote students and staff exchange between our Universities for the purpose of study, teaching and research. The agreement further opens doors for collaborative research projects, as well as exchange of information and publications of common interest. Mrs. Sharon Palacio-Moro, Coordinator of Student Services for UB, has been instrumental in this exchange program that is actively engaged with other institutions in Canada.

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The Canada Bureau for International Education (CBIE) administers the Emerging Leaders of the Americas Program (ELAP). For the past eight years the Canadian government has funded ELAP and subsequently enriched the experience for UB students who spend a semester in North America. For 2017-2018, three UB students have taken the opportunity; two enrolled at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and one at Huron University College (H.U.) in Canada.

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The exchange program between UB and Huron University has been ongoing for 12 years. Erin Gabourel is the sole Belizean at the institution. “Being exposed to a new culture and academic influence, I am really inspired to be great, just by being a voice, and showing others from a well-developed country, that I am able to compete and learn at their level. It was culture shock when I saw that I was the only ‘black’ individual in three of my classes. Reflecting on it makes me want to strive for success even more. Despite the minority at the Huron being colored, I am propelled to make a difference.”

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It’s been an arduous but blessed life for the 22 year old Belize City resident who is the third born of seven siblings. Erin says “I was reared by both parents Dana and Kenrick Gabourel.  I am also a passionate youth pastor and worship leader at Merirh’s Ministries in Belize City. I grew up very poor, where I didn’t have the privilege to get the best clothing or food. My mom was a hard worker and ensured that her children had something to eat and that we all went to school. Sometimes noodles was all that we ate, but both parents taught me to be grateful of whatever we get to eat, because many may not have anything to eat. I have always told myself that I will make a difference and help my family in return.”

Click here to hear Erin speak about gambling as a child to finding faith.

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While at H.U., Gabourel is enrolled in Philosophy 2074 F (550): Business Ethics; Philosophy 2500 F: Introduction to the Theory of Knowledge; Psychology 2221 A- Introduction to the Biological Basis of Behavior; and Psychology 2550 A, Section 550- Introduction to Personality Theory and Research.  These courses complement her major at UB. She chose Social Work and Counselling as her career path, because it involves the persistent efforts of reaching out to the well-being of others. She is at the end of a four year joint Associates and Bachelor’s Degree in the Social Work Program at UB and reflects on those who have helped her. “My four years at the University has been a struggle, as my adopted mom, Apostle Suzette Massiah is paying my way through college. There were also times where my Area Representative, the Honorable Wilfred Elrington would also assist me through the Ministry of Education, in order to pay my way through school. My adopted mom took me under her wings and taught me about the qualities of life and she introduced me to the finer things in life. She encouraged me to know that I am able to overcome poverty by determination and hard work. She was the first to tell me that I am beautiful, and also the one who taught me the Word of God, which has enabled me to be an Ordained Youth Minister of the Word of God. I know that with persistent determination, the right support, and God on my side that I can do anything and most of all, I can make it.”

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UB has been an exchange partner with Thompson Rivers University for 14 years and counting.  Eldon August was born and raised in Belize City. In 2015 he received an athletic scholarship from the University of Belize where he decided to pursue an Associate’s Degree in Marine Biology. The 21 year old UB student is taking Natural Resource Management courses during his semester at Thompson Rivers University. August has been impressed by the advanced technology and the different styles of teaching he has encountered. “The UB-Canada exchange has helped me to grow and it shows me how far behind we are as a country. Canada is very advanced but I have been able to adapt to the country, the speed and its climate.”

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His drive to succeed comes from being focused on family. “As a child, the only figure that I saw as my role model and support was my mother, Michelle Young. I grew up in a single parent household along with my sister Alisha. No father there for us. He left my mother from a young age. Seeing how my mother sacrificed and devoted her life for us to have big aspirations and dreams, I knew I wanted to become a better person and be accomplished and stable in life. Growing up with a single parent wasn’t easy. My mother struggled and worked her way just for us to have the basic things that we needed.”

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“During all the rough times and moments of despair the only way I could have kept my thoughts and emotions together was when I found a passion for basketball. The people who inspired me to play basketball were my cousins. We were of the same age and in the evenings, young boys would get together and play and interact with each other. When I was there playing, I felt for that instance, I had issues under control while negative thoughts were kept at bay. From since then, I dedicated myself to learn the sport. I played at school regional competition and National Team. The program that helped to developed me as the athlete and person I am today was an extension of the Belize Bank Bulldogs. I also got the chance to play in an international tournament as a Bulldog, an amazing experience.”

 

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Ashley Middleton has immersed herself into the cultural experience at Thompson Rivers University.  She wanted to live in another environment to enhance her overall learning. “I love travelling. I wanted to meet new people and learn a different culture and I also believed that if I studied away from home, it would help me become independent and mature. I’ve learned to be more independent in terms waking up for school on my own (not depending on my parents to wake me up), as well as making decisions for myself. I am in a little community! The University has places to eat, apartments, a clinic, sports facilities, everything you need is right on campus. The university looks out for its students. I’ve also learned a few things about myself, that is, I am not good at confrontations and I am very sensitive.”

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But the sensitive and socially active student is taking Human resource Management, Hospitality Law, Sociology, and Events Tourism as part of the UB exchange with Thompson Rivers University. The 20 year old student has lived a sheltered life and the exchange is one way that she wanted to achieve growth. Reflecting on her family in Belize has given clarity to her path. Two of her aunts possess Masters Degrees in Business Administration and she observed their rise in management positions upon their return to Belize. “I think it is they who inspired me. I said to myself, ‘If they can do it at age 48, then I can definitely pursue my masters by age 25.’”

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The exchange has also led to her realizing a very specific career goal. As Middleton reflects on the semester she recalls “There’s this specific instructor that made an impact on what I really want to do in Tourism. His name is Billy Collins. He lectures my Event Tourism class. This is the first time I’ve ever taken a class pertaining to events. He opened up my mind to want to study more about events, and I could probably organize events throughout Belize. Hence, I am going to pursue a degree in Events Management. My future is clear now that I know what I really want to become.”

THE FUTURE

Upon her return to Belize, Ashley intends to complete her courses at UB to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management; work in the industry to gain experience and follow the steps of her aunts and pursue a Master’s Degree. She intends to give back to UB and Belize by becoming skilled as an events planner. “I can come back and help plan events based on what I’ve learned. I feel like my way of giving back to UB is telling people about our wonderful country and University. I feel like that gesture alone, is giving back because more people will visit Belize and our University.”
Eldon August is taking things a little slower as he hasn’t thought about the future and is more concerned with current events and accomplishments. “I have always been about giving back. Knowledge and talent aren’t things to keep within yourself.  Whatever knowledge or talent you have you can teach others and help them to sharpen their skills.”

Huron University has helped Erin Gabourel to prepare for her career. She hopes to pursue a Masters in Clinical Psychology in Canada. “I am hoping to be one of the best Clinical Psychologists, or maybe the best Family Counselor in Belize. I will also be able to give back in service to The University of Belize and my country. I will be a developed individual, prepared to take on challenges that I may face within the profession.”

The study abroad experience overall has been enriching for Eldon August. It has assisted Ashley Middleton to determine the specific career she wants to pursue, while Erin Gabourel has become more spiritually motivated in her calling to pursue the social sciences. These students have been given not only a scholarship but an opportunity to engage in a developed country, Canada, its culture and way of life while being able to reflect and consider the path they want to follow as stewards of the University of Belize.

UB President Clement Sankat believes students should be engaged with peers at partner institutions. As these International Exchanges enhance their vistas of the future, better preparing themselves for the global world we live in, mutual understanding, collaboration and cooperation for a better Belize and the world would be achieved. Links with international centers of excellence are not limited to Canada, President Sankat has dialogued with institutions in Mexico on behalf of UB and currently holds a leadership position in Consejo Superior Universitario Centroamericano (CSUCA – Central American Higher Education Council). He intends to pursue the development of the internationalisation agenda at UB focusing on strong academics, sporting and cultural relationships and sharing of resources, especially among the institutions in Central America.

100 % passes for Belize RENR Exam are UB Nursing Graduates


The Regional Exam for Nurse Registration (RENR) was approved by the Conference of Ministers Responsible for Health in the Commonwealth Caribbean in 1990. It is considered a challenging exam and over the years, performance has fluctuated for Belize. The exam is administered by the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC).  The RENR is offered to graduates who have completed an approved program of studies. Annually, students who completed their studies in May of each year and have successfully completed 75% of their skills within their skills booklet, are eligible to take the RENR in October.

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Forty-seven (47) individuals from Belize sat the exam in October, 2017.  Twenty-four (24) individuals (51%) were successful and all of the country’s passes were from graduates of the University of Belize.  The Board of Trustees and the President’s Office asked for faculty intervention with students in training for the challenging examination. From August to September 2017, the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social Work (FNAHSW) offered a RENR preparatory course which was taken by 4 of 37 UB students who signed up for the RENR, October exam.   These 4 students: Yudally Valdez, Elin Lee, Grace Amagwula and Bonaventure Nwangwu were among the 24 passes for the country.

Bonaventure Nwangwu had the highest examination score for Belize.  He came from Nigeria to Belize 8 years ago and worked as a security guard and an office clerk while taking classes at UB. On Friday, 10th November, 2017 Bonaventure visited his alma mater and professors at the Belmopan Campus to thank them for their contribution to his education before walking over to the George Price Center where he joined the swearing in ceremony and formally became a Belizean. He wants to begin his career at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (KHMHA).  The UB congratulates Bonaventure on both his performance on the RENR exam and on being a Belizean citizen, as it congratulates and salutes all of its 24 graduates who passed the examination.

 

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The results of the Regional Exam for Nurse Registration were released the week and it shows an impressive performance by the students of the University of Belize.The Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) administers the exam to graduates who have completed an approved program of studies, among other requirements. Forty-seven students from across Belize sat the exam in October of this year – thirty seven were from UB. There were twenty-four passes – all UB Students. The top scorer for Belize is Bonaventure Nwangwu.

Posted by News 5 Live on Thursday, November 16, 2017

 

The recent preparatory course is only one of many steps taken to improve performance. Through feedback from the external peer committee led by Dr. Joanna Bennett, Dr. Julie Zerwic and Mrs. Laura Longsworth, the Department of Nursing under the stewardship of Mrs. Lily Mahung, former Chair of Nursing began to implement curricular changes. Additionally, the UWI, Mona Campus-Department of Nursing has and continues to collaborate with the faculty regarding the BSN curriculum.  The external report furnished by the committee guided and continues to guide the nursing faculty to expand its approach and incorporate different teaching methodologies in the classroom. The clinical experience for students continues to be diversified through the utilization of Government, non-government and private institutions. Students are sent to the Belize Family Life Association, the Stella Maris School, the Sister Cecilia Nursing Home, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, Regional hospitals and health centers and other places, countrywide. These environment have provided students the opportunity to obtain a rich and meaningful clinical experience.

The Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health & Social Work, Leolin Castillo said “I am ecstatic and relieved that our faculty members are delivering on the mandate that they are supposed to. It has been a continuous challenge based on the number of human resources that we have but I must commend all my faculty members for the job that they continue to do despite our limitations. This is the first step in the transformation of our faculty and to a greater extent, the University of Belize.”

The President of UB, Professor Clement Sankat indicated his pleasure at the success of the UB Nursing students and encouraged all such graduates who have not passed the Regional Exam, to register for the Preparatory Course when next offered by the FNAHSW at UB.  He further stated his satisfaction that UB’s Nurses were getting the regional recognition so necessary for their advancement.