April 2018 |
In 2013 and 2014, Dr. Judith Gobin, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Life Sciences at The UWI, St. Augustine, was invited on board the Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus. She was determined to share what she had learned to build a deeper understanding and appreciation of the deep sea environment in the region. This led to the introduction and distribution of an educational video series and captioned photo book detailing this previously unexplored natural feature. In February 2018, the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) officially launched the Deep Sea Wonders of the Caribbean video series and book at the Digicel IMAX. NIHERST’s Chairman, Professor Emeritus Winston Mellowes acknowledged the Caribbean scientists involved whose research and efforts “permanently changed our understanding of the Deep Sea.” He thought it would encourage young Caribbean students to consider a future in science and related fields, since they would be proud to know “that there are many experts/icons from this region, who look like us, talk like us, and share our experiences, who can excel and make their mark in the international community”. The feature address was delivered by Minister of Education, Anthony Garcia, who highlighted the importance of Marine Sciences as a discipline, stating that it will give “students the opportunity to see where this field of study can take them.” Dr. Gobin thanked all who were involved in ensuring that the project was successful and encouraged those present to “ponder on management of this tremendous resource” since it is our heritage. She said it was her duty as a scientist to encourage stakeholders to partner with scientists, which would allow conversations and strategies focused on ensuring the sustainability and conservations of our ecosystems. There was a first screening of the five-part video documentary series and the photo book on the Deep Sea Wonders of the Caribbean, which comprises the following segments:
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