A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed recently between the University of the West Indies, Mona and The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) to formally place the UWI’s resources and knowledge in a framework of NEPA needs.

Under the MOU the UWI and NEPA will conduct collaborative research projects; exchange scientific and technical data, information and materials; provide technical assistance and training; and other cooperative efforts as necessary. Specific areas of the collaboration include: management of natural resources, biodiversity, ecosystems, protected areas, environmental models and simulations, ecological assessments, pollution assessment and hazard mapping and GIS and data management.

Professor Gordon Shirley, Principal of the Mona Campus who signed the MOU on behalf of the University stated that the areas outlined draw on a wide cross section of the University’s skills and interests and the MOU will assist UWI in garnering its own resources as it focuses on synthesis and systematic response to the challenges of the country. These he said, can now be influenced by the partnership with NEPA, a clearly advantageous situation for both parties.

 Mr Peter Knight, Chief Executive Officer of NEPA in his remarks said the MOU signing comes at a critical point in our [NEPA’s] existence, as the signing of the MOU will allow us to achieve a number of objectives.” Mr Knight added that the Agency wants to use evidence-based information to drive the operations of Agency and the MOU will facilitate this process.

Also, present at the signing were Professor Ishenkumba  Kahwa, Dean Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Professor  Dale Webber, the James S. Moss Solomon Chair in Environmental Management, Mr Anthony McKenzie, Manager for Strategic Planning and Policies, NEPA and other representatives of NEPA and UWI.