UB E-Bulletin Vol1 Issue 9

Grand Opening: Bookstore & Cafeteria Students, faculty and staff participated in the inauguration of the new and long anticipated UB Bookstore at Central Campus in the nation’s capital on November 21.

The newly renovated building houses the bookstore and will serve as a central hub for students, faculty, staff and friends of the UB Community.

Special features include an automated and bar-coded inventory system with scanners at the cash registers; a variety of products and services including apparel, gift items, stationery, food and drink will be available to students. In this context, the University partnered with a number of providers in the design and production of exclusive line of UB branded T- shirts, blouses and caps depicting various styles, designs and colours, UB branded pens, water bottles, tumblers, hand sanitizers and flash drives etc.

The bookstore building also houses a Cafeteria that will be available for breakfast, lunch and snacks; quick and convenient phone credit top up services; a spacious and amazing deck located at the rear of the building with large picnic tables for students to lounge, surf the net free of cost on UB’s Wi-Fi system, engage in study groups or have a quick bite to eat.

“The opening of the Bookstore represents the University’s unwavering commitment to students within a learning environment,” said Assistant Provost, Dr. Cynthia Thompson. “It is an investment that will undoubtedly benefit students www.ub.edu.bz

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and the University.”

Also at the opening, the President of the Alumni Association, Mr. Kerry Belisle, presented a cheque to the President of the University, Dr. Cary Fraser totaling $4,500 for a scholarship fund for students of the institution.

“I accept this gift from the Alumni Association as an indication that the Alumni Association recognizes the importance of contributing to a community that has in some ways contributed to their development, and will continue to work on behalf of the University long after all of us are gone,” said Dr. Fraser.

Other special invited guests at the grand opening included the Mayor of Belmopan, His Worship, Mr. Simeon Lopez, and the Vice Chair of UB Board of Trustees, Mr. Deryck Satchwell, Mr. Steve Spiro, Board Member, and Mrs. Pearl Fraser, wife of the President, Management, Administrators, and providers. Mr. Spiro was instrumental in spearheading this project.

During the transition of the Bookstore until the full operationalization of the new one, the current old bookstore will continue to provide services for the rental of books to students.

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Future Entrepreneurs Compete with Professionals Students of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences Marketing Class of the University of Belize displayed their marketing and creativity skills at the University of Belize Annual “Marketing Exposition” on November 13, at the Princess Hotel and Casino, Belize City.

This year’s exposition was more challenging and exciting with the University’s emerging entrepreneurs competed with established entrepreneurs for booth presentation, building brand awareness, promotional strategy techniques and building customer relationships.

The exhibits showcased the richness and creativity of the students marketing techniques, strategies and entrepreneurial skills. Upon graduating from the University, the students will be prepared to use those skills on their own account or in the enterprises which will employ them.

The Exposition is recognized by private and public sector institutions for its innovative and entrepreneurial approach. It is all effort of the University’s to promote entrepreneurship and business development among private and public sector organizations in support of entrepreneurship and business development in Belize.

For this year’s event the University of Belize partnered with the Youth Business Trust Belize (YBTB), the Belize Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations.

In related news, UB and YBTB together sponsored an: “Entrepreneurship Symposium” at the Central Campus, Belmopan. Marketing students from the Central Campus mounted displays on the establishment of a business enterprise, and products ranging from pastries, luncheon and juices etc.

The Symposium was used to grade students as part of their final exam. Students as part of their training are encouraged to demonstrate in practice the lessons they have acquired over the course of their study.

Guest Speaker at the event was the Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance & Economic Development, Hon. Santino Castillo. www.ub.edu.bz

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“be innovative not only to attract new customers, but you will have to find solutions that meet your customers’ needs through different ways or more effective products, processes, services, technologies or ideas that are readily available to markets, government, and . . . society in general.” Hon. Santino Castillo

Both events were designed to promote entrepreneurship as a viable option in Belize with a focus on youth entrepreneurship.

In Belize City, the award for Most Attractive booth and People’s Choice went to “Soapy Expressions”, Best Marketing Product and Service was awarded to “I Scream Gelato’s” and“Ole Tase bar-b- que sauce.” won the award for Entrepreneurial spirit/most dynamic presentation.

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Report Card on Children and Women Achieving Millennium Development Goals The final Report on Belize’s Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) on the status of children and women was presented by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to key stakeholders and the wider community at the University of Belize, Belmopan on December 7.The MICS report sought to assess the country’s progress in meeting the Millenium Development Goals.

MICS is an international household survey developed by UNICEF to obtain up-to-date information on the situation of children and women, using key indicators shown from the Convention on the Rights of the Child and with the Millennium Development Goals. The National Plan of Action for children and adolescents in Belize 2004–2015 is aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of Belize’s children.

One of the critical findings of the survey is the dropout rate of males - estimated at almost 60 percent between the ages of 12-18 - from the educational system. Other notable findings addressed Adult Literacy, Child Mortality, Breastfeeding, Immunization, Solid Fuel Use, Water and Sanitation, Child Development, Pre-School Attendance and School Readiness, Child Discipline, Domestic Violence, and Knowledge of HIV Transmission and Condom Use etc.

Financial and technical support was provided by UNICEF to SIB to conduct the Survey, which commenced in July 2011 and was completed in August of this year. The MDGs is a United Nations initiative that consists of an eight-point objective for global development. It emphasizes the reduction of child mortality rates, the achievement of universal primary education, the promotion of gender equality, as well as the empowerment of women.

Speakers at the event included the President of the University of Belize, Dr. Cary Fraser, UNICEF Representative, Ms. Christine Norton, Executive Director of SIB, Mr. Glen Avilez, local www.ub.edu.bz

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UB Board Member Receives Queen’s Honor Belmopan, 5th December, 2012.

Two prominent Belizeans were today honoured by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.They are Sister Maria Caritas Lawrence, SM, EDD; and Right Reverend Philip Wright B.A. (Hons) M.A. who were awarded with the insignia of the Order of the British Empire.

The Governor-General of Belize, His Excellency Sir Colville Young pinned the medals on them, reciting a short biography of each for the benefit of a number of distinguished invitees to the occasion.

Bishop Wright currently sits on the Board of Governors of the University of Belize, is a member of the Council of Churches, and works with a number of NGO groups within the Anglican church in the Province of the West Indies. He is currently the third most Senior Diocesan Bishop in the Province. Today Bishop Wright was honoured by the Queen for his outstanding services to Belize in the field of religion. Bishop Wright is married to Mrs. Carla Suite-Wright.

Sister Maria Caritas Lawrence is the eighth of ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lawrence. Her career as an educator spans forty-six years, with fortythree of those years dedicated in loving service to the people of her beloved Belize. Sister Caritas holds a Doctorate in Leadership Education. Today Sister Caritas, as she is affectionately known, was honoured by the Queen for her years of outstanding accomplishments and service in the field of religion and education. (courtesy of Government of Belize Press Office)

consultant, Dr. Leopold Perriott, Dev-Info Specialist, Statistics and Monitoring Section, UNICEF-New York, Mr. Peter Leth, and Statistics Specialist, Household Surveys, Statistics and Monitoring Section, UNICEF- New York, Mr. Turgay Unalan.

UB & UNICEF: strategic collaboration

In 2011, the University of Belize signed an Agreement for the establishment of a Policy Observatory with UNICEF aimed to contribute to more efficient public policy processes and effective public policies, particularly those aimed at children and other vulnerable groups. The Policy Observatory is a joint initiative by UNICEF, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the University to build national capacity for the implementation of efficient and effective policy investment strategies, methodologies and tools to enhance national development. www.ub.edu.bz

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Enhancing Wellness, Protection & Control of Diabetes World Diabetes Day is celebrated on November 14 and nursing students at the University of Belize hosted a Diabetes Conference, in collaboration with the Belize Diabetes Association (BDA), to mark the day.

The second year nursing students spoke to students, faculty, staff and members of the general public on the prevalence illness of diabetes, and its impact upon patients. People with diabetes often suffer from damage to their eyes, nerves, kidneys and feet.

Lecturer, Isabel Bennett, said the conference, Diabetes: Protect Our Future, aimed to sensitise people on the lifestyle changes that can improve their health and wellness, and ensure protection and control of diabetes.”

Vice President of the Belize Diabetes Association, Magistrate Ms. Sharon Fraser, in her Key Note Address, pointed out that 31 per cent of the population is living with diabetes. There was also a testimonial from a nine-year old child who shared his experience of living with diabetes.

Other notable highlights at the conference included the establishment of the first diabetes support group from among the participants at the conference and the formation of the first “Human Blue Circle” which is symbolic of Diabetes Awareness. In a show of support of the Diabetes Conference and World Diabetes Day, students, faculty and staff wore blue.

World Diabetes Day was celebrated this year under the theme: “Diabetes: prevention and education!”

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Embracing a Universal Educational Experience in a Multicultural Society

On November 15, students from the multiple communities within Belize celebrated Belize’s ethnic diversity by showcasing the dress, food, music and other cultural practices that infuse the fabric of Belize society.

Notable displays at the fair included Music and Dances of Belize, Foods of Belize, Practices and Rituals of Belize, Languages of Belize, Folklores of Belize and Cultures of Belize. The fair was organized by students of the History & Anthropology Department.

Professional School for Training Teachers The University of Belize through the Faculty of Education and Arts adopted Kuxlin Ha Government School to serve as a teaching laboratory for teacher trainees. The establishment of a Professional School for Teacher Trainees, said FEA Acting Dean, Dr. Priscilla Lopez, “provides opportunity for teachers to teach within authentic classroom settings and to observe teaching practice as a part of their teacher training as well as providing opportunities for teachers to hone their pedagogical skills.” Other initiatives by the Faculty includes a book drive, establishing a school library within the school, providing training for teachers and administrators and placement for students visiting Belize on Study Abroad Pograms. On November 12, eight student teachers from the University of North Florida commenced a three week practical school based experience at Kuxlin Ha. Through this initiative a number of school supplies and books were donated to the school by UNF students and the FEA students and Faculty. www.ub.edu.bz

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Empowering Education for Children in Today’s Society The University of Belize through the Faculty of Education and Arts (FEA) held its Bi-annual community outreach symposium on November 15, at the Jaguar Building, Belmopan.

The symposium, held under the theme: “Empowering Education for children in Today’s Society,” was aimed to provide faculty, staff, students and visitors/guests with an understanding and strategies to overcome barriers that adversely affect students.

“Our mission is to inform and provide alternatives to living and working with special needs students,” said Assistant Professor, Dr. Thomasine Baker. “This year we promoted a higher level of sensitivity among the UB Community and surrounding communities that both empowered exceptional students and dispel the myths that negatively impact our relationships with the differently able in Belize.”

Display booths depicted Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Behavioral Disorder, and Physical Disabilities/Visual Impairment. Games were also used to demonstrate extra curricular activities, language arts for an inclusive classroom, and strategies for families to accommodate special needs children, in order to enhance the learning environment.

Sponsors for this year’s event were Smart, S.P. Cheng Dangriga, Lamanai Tours, A + Photo Cayo, Venus Cayo and Papaya Boutique, Placencia.

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UB Students: Champion Debaters

Congratulations to the students of the UB Debate Club in winning the first Inter-mural Debate Competition, hosted by the University on November 21, in Belmopan. Our worthy opponents were Sacred Heart College, who have committed to work with UB in this collaborative effort to create avenues for our students to engage in debates to address issues that deeply affect them.

The wider UB community is encouraged to continue to support the hosting of these student forums. The Debate Club of the University, under the leadership of Lecturer Tracey Sangster, envisions that the event will be held at the national level with the engagement of other schools throughout the academic year.

Members of the winning team were Alaysha Gilharry, Kadijah Marin, Courtney Weatherburne, Ashanti Garcia, Esther Gillman, and Elizabeth Andrus-Reimer.

Abuse: Part 2

The follow-up session on Abuse was hosted by the UB Debate Club on November 7th. The guest presenter was once again Ms Diana Shaw, a prominent advocate against domestic violence. The presentation focused primarily on men - how they could identify anger triggers and deal with anger. Additionally, Diana shared her insights on resources available for those who need help for uncontrolled anger. Ms Shaw pointed out that it was important for women to understand that men are differently phsychologically, and they should become aware of the support they provide by helping their husbands and dating partners to recognize and manage anger. She also spoke briefly on breaking domestic violence patterns within families.

The session was well attended by both men and women. www.ub.edu.bz

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Ambassador of Israel Address Students

Non-resident Ambassador of Israel to Belize, His Excellency Mr. Shmulik Arie Bass visited the University on November 21 and delivered a lecture to students on the relations between Belize and Israel and also challenges in the current international context.

Living Across Cultures A lecture on “Islam, Africa and Slavery,� was delivered on November 28 by Dr Abdullah Hakim Quick, an Islamic scholar, to History and Anthropology, and English students from the University of Belize at Central Campus, Belmopan.

Dr. Quick, is a historian, social activist and religious leader of African and NaAmbassador Bass has a M.A. in Political tive American descent. He has a BA in Islamic Studies from the Islamic UniScience (Diplomacy), Tel Aviv University (Cum Laude) and a B.A. in Middle versity of Madinah, Saudi Arabia. He received an MA and PhD from the HisEast Studies and Political Science, Tel tory Department of the University of Aviv University (Cum Laude). He has held numerous positions in the Ministry Toronto, Canada. of Foreign Affairs, and has also repreDr Quick has a number of scholarly sented Israel in several countries. presentations and publications. His reThe Ambassador during his visit to the cent focus has been on producing doccampus met and held discussions with umentary films such as Timbuktu, the Empire of Knowledge, Untold Ethiopia the President of the University of Beand Reflections from the Western Sunlize, Dr. Cary Fraser. rise.

A pictorial exhibition of holy places and churches from Israel depicting the richness of spirit, the diversity and coexistence within Israel was displayed at the Jaguar building. The visit of the Ambassador of the State of Israel was coordinated through the courtesy of the Honorary Consul of Israel to Belize, Mrs. Rose Wischenka. www.ub.edu.bz

Presently, Shaykh Abdullah is the Head of the History Department of Al Maghrib Institute and the Director of Outreach for the Canadian Council of Imams.

The visit of Dr. Quick was coordinated through the courtesy of Mr. Nuri Muhammad.

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Women In Literature The University of Belize’s eight annual Belizean Writer’s Conference was held at the Jaguar Auditorium on November 28, 2012.

The conference was organized by lecturer, Mr. Amado Chan’s Women in Literature Class. This annual event showcased the talented works of unpublished writers and one published author.

The genres were women’s empowerment poetry/prose, love poems, patriotic poems, short story magical realism, creative nonfiction short and song.

The Belizean women authors were Trycelin Lord, Elizabeth Andrus – Reimer, Courtney Weatherburne, Natalie Williams, Carla Lewis, Jackee Burns, Ivory Kelly and Kim Blease.

Ms. Montserrat Casademunt, Cubola Productions owner, and president of the Belize Book Industry Association (BBIA) of gave a thought provoking presentation, which highlighted the relationship between the publisher and writer. She also offered encouragement to the writers “…

A strong group of writers within BBIA can help to lobby for a cultural policy that includes a book law, as well as initiatives to create a literary prize, writing grants, training and participation in national and international events. “

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Engineering Department Seminar On November 14th, 2012, the Engineering Department conducted a seminar on the 'Role of Engineers within Belize'. The facilitators at the seminar were Mr. William Lamb and Mr. Sanjay Keshwani, both registered engineers from the Association of Professional Engineers of Belize.

Speaking to the students, they emphasized the importance and need for engineers within Belize as a developing country. The seminar was well attended by both our first and second year students from all three programs. There were approximately 85 students present.

Students Compete in Mexico

On the 21 and 22 October, students from all three programs within the Engineering Department participated in the Annual Model Structural Competition in Chetumal at the Instituto Tecnologico de Chetumal. The aim of the competition is to promote the use of theories of mechanical behavior of materials to solve structural problems and foster creativity in students within the engineering and architectural programs. The competition featured 32 teams, including teams from Cancun and other parts of Mexico.

Engineering students who participated were: Monique Acosta, David Alcantara Micheal Lieva, Eric Morales, and Parnell Graham

Engineering Intramural Sports

The Engineering Department Intramural volleyball and basketball competition again was a success. Participating teams were from UB campuses within Belize City. FMSS Racoons were able to secure a championship victory in the volleyball. However in basketball, the Racoons were not able to defend their championship which went to the Architectural team from the the Engineering Department.

Most valuable player (MVP) award for volleyball went to Fenton Ross from FMSS, while in basketball MVP award went to Raheem Gaynair from Architectural Technology. www.ub.edu.bz

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Belize: Getting to Zero The University of Belize through the Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social work and the Student Counselor's Office in Belize City conducted a successful HIV Testing Day during November in Belize City to highlight 16 Days of Activism and advocacy for human rights of all persons, and targeted gender violence and discrimination against persons living with HIV infection. Over 60 persons were tested.

Kudos to Nursing Students Balraj Brah, Mary Cho, Kelsey Gillett, and Samantha Williams for providing assistance in carrying out all the duties assigned to them as well as Faculty Secretary in FNASHW, Martha Jonch for coordination of logistics of the event.

fairs on November 22, 2012.

An HIV Testing was also done at the Central Campus coordinated by Office of Student Af-

Student Government donates router Kudos to the Central Campus Student Government which received a Cisco wireless router for students. It will be installed at the Library to enable students to access the UB Wi-Fi connection. This service will be available to students on the return to classes from the Christmas holidays.

On hand to receive the router from SG representatives were personnel from the Library and the Information, Communication, and Technology Department.

Christmas Fun We have often heard that that all work and no play makes Jack/ Jill a dull student, and it is in this context, the Belmopan Student Government organized a ‘Christmas Fun’ on November 28, for students prior to the commencement of their final exams on December 3.

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Connecting Math and Technology in Education Students of the Real Analysis II class from the Math Department demonstrated the connectivity between Mathematics and Technology. On December 11, students presented mathematical video tutorials which they had produced using the skills they have learned throughout their studies at the University of Belize. Students agreed that they had a great experience creating these educational videos, although they encountered some limitations.

This will particularly help the students who are pursuing teaching degrees by preparing them for the classroom environment. The class lecturer, Dr. Aaron Lewis, said he was pleased by the performance of the students

Studying Opportunities for NRM Students The Embassy of Mexico and the Natural Resources Management Program of the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Belize held a forum where Belizean professionals shared their experiences while studying in Mexico at the Jaguar Auditorium on November 8, 2012.

Ms. Esther Montalvo of the Embassy of Mexico spoke on the significance of achieving a Mexican university degrees, and gave helpful tips on how to apply for scholarships and where to apply.

All the participants spoke of an initial homesickness but with helpful professors and mentors quickly adapted to their stay in various parts of Mexico, and returned home after successfully completing their course of study.

Dr. Jorge Trejo, Mr. Carlos Tun, Mr. Manolo Magana. Mr. Omir Vega and Mr. Jorge Castaneda shared candid reflections about studying in various Mexican universities. They also advised and encouraged NRM students to consider studying in Mexican universities.

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Educating Future Environmentalists

Students from five primary schools gathered at the Jaguar Auditorium on December, for the culmination of the Environmental Education Outreach Program (EEOP). EEOP was facilitated by students from the Natural Resources Management Program (NRMP) of the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University. The students performed skits, sang a song, and displayed environmental models which they had created. The presentations targeted environmental problems, impact, and conservation.

Saint Martin’s Government School took home the grand prize followed by Kuxlin Ha with second place, and third place went to Garden City Primary School. Other participating schools were Saint Ann’s Anglican Primary School, and Our Lady of Guadalupe School.

The NRMP would like to thank the Ministry of the Environment, Belize Zoo, Belize Audobon Society, Protected Areas Conservation Trust, Ms. Jhoanna Williams, and the Professional Skills class for their contribution in making this a successful program.

Bone Dance Competition Nursing students share the joy with children

The Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health, and Social Work, in the spirit of giving had a toy drive for primary school children in the communities around Belmopan. The children were happy to receive these gifts from the University. www.ub.edu.bz

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Students Excel in Intership Programme Students of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences (FMSS) have demonstrated their theoretical knowledge and talents at private and public sector entities through their internship program. The nine week programme also provides an opportunity for employers to recognize the skills of potential employees. In addition, the internship programme also allows students to be better equipped to make career choices.

Organization that partnered with the University of Belize included the Embassies of the United States, Mexico, and Venezuela as well as the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, the Social Investment Fund, Beltrade, United Nations Development Programme, Climate Change Center, Statistical Institute of Belize, European Union Office, Police Head Quarters, Atlantic Bank, Scotia Bank, OIRSA, Femagra Industries, Social Security Board, Ministry of Public Service, PC. Com, Belmopan City Council, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

Gone but not forgotten

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Volleyball Champions!

UB Black Jaguars once again have clinched the championship title at the ATLIB Volleyball National Tournament. Our Lady Black Jaguars easily defeated Wesley Junior College females 25-2, and 25-11. The first game for the male Black Jaguars was against San Pedro Junior College winning by scores of 25-12, and 25-16. With these victories, our Black Jaguars advanced to the championship matches. Our Lady Black Jaguars were victorious against Stann Creek Ecumenical Junior College (SCEJC) females, winning 25-16 and 25-15.

On the other hand our male Black Jaguars also faced SCEJC for the final match of the day. The first set went in favor of SCEJC 25-20, but in the second set our Black Jaguars responded by winning 25-20. The last set being the decisive both teams gave it their all. Black Jaguars emerged with a 15-12 victory and the championship.

Most Valuable Players

UB Black Jaguars captains Jaleel Lino, and Shantel Arnold for males and females respectively received the Championship trophies. The officials voted Arnie Augustine and Shantel Arnold as the Most Valuable Players of the tournament.

Congratulations Black Jaguars!

Proud Captains

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