As Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) and the Caribbean navigate rapid technological advancements, collaboration between academia and industry is essential for translating innovation into practical development. In this spirit, The University of the West Indies (UWI) St Augustine Campus and the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago (AMCHAM T&T) have formalised a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
This partnership combines academic expertise with industry leadership to foster initiatives in research, training, policy development, and innovation, focusing on enhancing AI-related skills across T&T and the Caribbean. Activities include joint research projects, professional development programs, student internships, and public education efforts, all aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, Campus Principal of The UWI, St Augustine, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating it marks a shift towards creating responsible AI solutions tailored to local needs. Nirad Tewarie, CEO of AMCHAM T&T, emphasised the opportunity this collaboration presents to help businesses understand and effectively implement AI technologies.
The UWI St Augustine Campus has led the charge in advancing AI within the region through its AI Innovation Centre (AIIC), positioning T&T as a contender in the digital economy. Dr Craig Ramlal, Executive Director of the AIIC, expressed commitment to fostering a link between innovative ideas and practical applications, aiming to develop a guidebook on AI and policy for local businesses.
(L–R) Head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Deputy Director of the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre (AIIC), Professor Arvind Singh; Executive Director of the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Centre (AIIC), Dr Craig Ramlal; Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI St Augustine Campus, Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine; Chief Executive Officer of American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago, Nirad Tewarie; and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor Bheshem Ramlal, display the signed MoU