By Jomo Paul
[www.inewsguyana.com] – Nine grants have been awarded to faculty members of the University of Guyana (UG) who are looking to pursue research in the area of Low Carbon Development and surrounding areas.
The grants awarded totalled some US$248, 522and stretches from research in the determination of aflotoxins in paddy, rice and rice products in Guyana to exploring the integration of environmental education in the mathematics curriculum.
University of Guyana Vice Chancellor Professor Jacob Opadeyi said that the whole question of low carbon initiatives was an issue that was pivotal to the development of Guyana and sustaining the ecology.
“These grants are for researches that are very meaningful to the country, from rice production to diet of prehistoric society,” said Professor Opadeyi who noted that this is not the first time that such grants are being awarded.
He pointed out the University is already seeing results from the grants last year with steps being made to patent a drug that was developed using a local fruit.
“Last year when we did this, persons thought that it was nothing and this year we have so many applicants,” said Opadeyi pointing to the increased interest in research work at UG.
Meanwhile, Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine underscored the importance of evidence based policies being implemented, noting that the research will provide information to show the way forward on many issues of importance.
“So much of this research work which has been described here today will be of inestimable value to what it is we need in Guyana to move us forward…it is research that is necessary for us and it will take us forward” said the Education Minister.
School Or College Grants Are Given For Various Reasons:
If Guyanese are TOLD, or Policies explained CLEARLY about what these Grants are for.
The Targeted Areas Of Study, and the Presumed Benefits to be derived therefrom, after graduating and research is done.
I am sure it will get the much needed support it deserves.