Belmopan, May 17, 2024.
A delegation from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology participated in the 9th Annual Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Forum held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on May 8-9. The delegation was led by Dr. Hon. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology.
The delegation also included H.E. Ambassador Carlos Fuller, Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations; Namrita Balani, Director of Science and Technology; Dr. Dorian Arnold, Computer Scientist and Director of Computer Science and Informatics at Emory University, USA; Dr. Sydney Taegar, Director of Optics, Research and Development at Nokia, USA; and Dr. Aaron Lewis, Physicist and Data Scientist, USA.
Belize is drafting its first comprehensive STI strategy, which aims to foster sustainable development and enhance the country’s technological capabilities. The 9th STI Forum, themed around leveraging STI for sustainable development, provided an invaluable platform for Belize to align its emerging strategy with global best practices and collaborative opportunities.
During the forum, Dr. Hon. Louis Zabaneh delivered a compelling statement on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), emphasizing the critical role of STI in addressing regional challenges such as climate change, economic diversification, and social development. Additionally, Dr. Zabaneh presented a national statement for Belize, highlighting the country’s commitment to integrating STI into national development plans and its vision for a future driven by innovation and scientific advancement.
The participation of the Belizean delegation underscored the nation’s dedication to advancing its STI agenda through international cooperation and knowledge exchange. The insights and connections gained at the forum are expected to significantly contribute to Belize’s STI strategy’s finalization, ensuring it is robust, inclusive, and aligned with global trends.
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For further information, contact:
Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology
Belmopan, Belize
Phone: +501-822-2380
Email: pr@moecst.gov.bz
