UWI researchers confronting the global crises

by Karel Mc Intosh

“In my research I have come to understand that many problems facing agriculture, such as the devastating effects of diseases, have to be solved at the regional level, “says Professor Pathmanathan Umaharan of the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, St Augustine Campus. “Due to its regional scope, UWI provides an opportunity to engage in these kinds of projects.”

Involved in improving the resistance of crop plants to pest and diseases through genetic means, and genetically improving crop yield and quality, Professor Umaharan has also been highly active in expanding the production of blight-resistant plants. He has a patent pending for the biotechnological approach to screening for resistance to bacterial blight disease in anthurium. He and his team are also involved in attempts to create novel colours in anthurium such as blue, purple, and yellow.

The Mona, Cave Hill, and St Augustine campuses are all heavily involved in agronomy – the science and technology of using plants for food, fuel, feed, and fiber. Among the research areas at Cave Hill is the improvement of yield in sugarcane, and the associated improvement in its sugar and fibre content. Mona researchers have focused on the genetic diversity of sorrel and beans, as well as the genetics of important traits and breeding of the crops. Improving yield is an important means of maintaining the competitiveness of Caribbean farmers in the face of globalization. Additional research on agribusiness approaches, the competitiveness of agro-industries in the Caribbean, and climate change and its impact on agriculture will certainly aid countries to better address food security issues, and to strengthen economic development initiatives.

When one links the research that is being conducted in various areas, one recognises the interrelatedness of it all. For example, Professor Umaharan’s research can most certainly be that more useful, in conjunction with the findings of Mona Campus Senior Lecturer Dr. Lou Anne Barclay on firm, industry and country competitiveness in developing economies, the development of sound national systems of innovation in developing countries and the competitiveness of locally-owned firms in the Caribbean.

With plans to expand research programmes in areas such as biotechnology, computer sciences, information technology, energy and tourism, the UWI is grounded in its status, as the primary source for research and expert advice in dealing with the complex issues and challenges facing the Caribbean. The universal quest for knowledge is never over, and as UWI’s researchers discover new solutions, the University is sure to increase its wealth of robust, research productivity.

Dr. Gail Baccus-Taylor – Senior Lecturer, Department of Chemical Engineering, St Augustine Campus, and one of the University’s lead researchers in the area of food product development – believes in the need to give back. “UWI contributed to my scientific training,” she says. Now I choose to work at UWI to positively impact regional development.”

In the face of a lack of structured, national and regional mechanisms for funding relevant research, the University continues to seek partnerships with more institutions and corporate bodies, as it seeks to intensify research initiatives that address global crises.

To contribute to UWI’s Research Fund, please contact the Office of the Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Wayne Hunte at pvcresearch@cavehill.uwi.edu

 For more of UWI’s world-class academics making significant regional and international contributions visit http://www.uwi.edu/60under60

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