OVER 100 research projects were displayed by researchers and scientists of the University of the West Indies (UWI) during Research Days 2014 held February 19 and 21 under the theme ‘Fostering growth and development in small island developing states through research’.

Professor Archibald McDonald, principal of UWI, reiterated that research is vital for the growth and development of the nation.

He said it is important that Jamaicans embrace the annual expo, draw from the research projects on display, and create their own projects, as it is through research and national participation that growth will be fostered.

“Research and development have been considered driving forces for growth in some of the world’s most economically stable and prosperous nations. Countries such as China, the United States of America and even India have relied heavily on research and development at both the academic and the commercial levels, to drive production and increase revenue for their economies,” McDonald said at the opening ceremony.

He added that one main objective of the annual Research Days at the university is to encourage the youth to embrace research.

There were exhibitions related to social welfare, gender development, green environment, climate change, health, science, technological advancements, agriculture, politics, community development and the economy.

— Ainsworth Morris