The University of the West Indies (UWI) is looking to develop a closer relationship with the region’s private sector as part of its 2012 to 2017 strategic plan.
Word of this came yesterday from vice-chancellor Professor E. Nigel Harris during an address to members of the local private sector at the offices of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“By 2017 we shall be globally recognized as an innovative, internationally competitive university, deeply rooted in all aspects of Caribbean development and committed to serving the diverse people of the region and beyond,” he said.
“An important goal of this new plan is that we can fashion a more robust relationship with the private sector not only in terms of offering broad educational programmes, but in the conduct of research and knowledge development, wherever possible translating new ideas and products into business opportunities.
“We wish, too, to expand our outreach and advisory services wherever possible,” Harris added.
Speaking on the topic Building Partnerships Between Town And Gown To Drive Caribbean Development, he said there was a myth that academics and academic institutions relied on government handouts. (NB)
