Successful symposium marks the start of USM Lecture series
February 18, 2024
The symposium stimulated lively discussions and prompted attendees to consider the implications of AI and digital technology on St. Maarten's development trajectory, emphasizing the importance of developing legislation and a strategic plan for artificial intelligence on the island.
The team proudly hosted a dynamic symposium on Thursday, February 15th, marking the start of its 35th-anniversary celebration Lecture series. The lecture, titled "Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in the Digital Era in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)," brought together a diverse range of stakeholders and thought leaders to discuss the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology in the context of St. Maarten and the Caribbean region.
The symposium, held on campus, was well attended, with the lecture hall filled to capacity. USM had the honor of welcoming distinguished guests which included His Excellency Governor Ajamu Baly, Member of Parliament Shamira Roseburg, USM Acting President Wycliffe Smith, and Dean of Academics Dr. Gale Rigobert. The opening remarks were delivered by USM Dean of Academics, who set an inspiring tone for the evening.
Ms. Riddhi Samtani, a youth activist and research student, masterfully served as emcee for the evening, guiding attendees through thought-provoking presentations. Mr. Marcus Nicolaas, a USM faculty member and PhD candidate in Technologies/Education, shared a presentation and his valuable insights into the intersection of technology and education in SIDS. This was followed by an engaging panel discussion with industry experts such as Serge Bakker, Managing Director of Carib-Work IT N.V.; Duncan van Heyningen, Managing ATS Training and Development at Princess Juliana International Airport; Marvio Cooks, ICT Coordinator at the Division of Public Education - Ministry of Education Culture, Youth, and Sports; and Jhuriel Daniel, IT Professional.
Alexandrox Bloem and Kleyian Carter, two students from Milton Peters College's VWO-6 exam group, presented their insights and experiences with AI and digital technology in education and society, emphasizing the importance of youth perspectives. The evening concluded with a powerful closing speech by USM alumnus Conrad Richardson, who reflected on the symposium's significance and the opportunities that await St. Maarten in the digital age.
The symposium stimulated lively discussions and prompted attendees to consider the implications of AI and digital technology on St. Maarten's development trajectory, emphasizing the importance of developing legislation and a strategic plan for artificial intelligence on the island. Many people expressed the need for ongoing dialogue and engagement on these critical issues.
Celebrating 35 years of educating the nation, USM has committed to hosting a series of lectures throughout the year on topics that are relevant and urgent for St. Maarten. The next lecture, titled "Culture, Society, and Climate Challenges," will be held on Thursday, February 22nd, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the USM campus. The USM team encourages the general public to come out and attend these enriching discussions.
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The symposium, held on campus, was well attended, with the lecture hall filled to capacity. USM had the honor of welcoming distinguished guests which included His Excellency Governor Ajamu Baly, Member of Parliament Shamira Roseburg, USM Acting President Wycliffe Smith, and Dean of Academics Dr. Gale Rigobert. The opening remarks were delivered by USM Dean of Academics, who set an inspiring tone for the evening.
Ms. Riddhi Samtani, a youth activist and research student, masterfully served as emcee for the evening, guiding attendees through thought-provoking presentations. Mr. Marcus Nicolaas, a USM faculty member and PhD candidate in Technologies/Education, shared a presentation and his valuable insights into the intersection of technology and education in SIDS. This was followed by an engaging panel discussion with industry experts such as Serge Bakker, Managing Director of Carib-Work IT N.V.; Duncan van Heyningen, Managing ATS Training and Development at Princess Juliana International Airport; Marvio Cooks, ICT Coordinator at the Division of Public Education - Ministry of Education Culture, Youth, and Sports; and Jhuriel Daniel, IT Professional.
Alexandrox Bloem and Kleyian Carter, two students from Milton Peters College's VWO-6 exam group, presented their insights and experiences with AI and digital technology in education and society, emphasizing the importance of youth perspectives. The evening concluded with a powerful closing speech by USM alumnus Conrad Richardson, who reflected on the symposium's significance and the opportunities that await St. Maarten in the digital age.
The symposium stimulated lively discussions and prompted attendees to consider the implications of AI and digital technology on St. Maarten's development trajectory, emphasizing the importance of developing legislation and a strategic plan for artificial intelligence on the island. Many people expressed the need for ongoing dialogue and engagement on these critical issues.
Celebrating 35 years of educating the nation, USM has committed to hosting a series of lectures throughout the year on topics that are relevant and urgent for St. Maarten. The next lecture, titled "Culture, Society, and Climate Challenges," will be held on Thursday, February 22nd, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the USM campus. The USM team encourages the general public to come out and attend these enriching discussions.
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