GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by representatives from student associations of the Universities of Guyana (UC) and the West Indies (UWI) to fight against discrimination and the overall improvement of life at both institutions.

The MOU was signed on Saturday at the UG’s Turkeyen campus by representatives of the UG Students society and the Intercampus Guild Council of the University of the West Indies (IGCUWI).

“To work towards the elimination of discriminatory treatment at any of the Universities, whether on the basis of race, colour, sex, gender, language, religious, political or other beliefs, national or social origin, property or HIV status,” the MOU stated.

Both institutions have agreed to cooperate in the exchange of knowledge , information , students and research in areas of mutual interest. “To facilitate mutually beneficial training sessions, on terms agreed in writing between the parties especially but not limited to areas related to leadership, effective management, anti-corruption, and advocacy,”

The two sides also agreed to facilitate study tours on the University Campuses and address the welfare of students through collaboration in effective student representation.

The promotion of social and cultural activities among students of member Universities is another aspect of the MOU, in that the tertiary institutions will work together to plan, implement and improve students across the universities in the areas of curriculum development, training and student services in the visual, creative and performing arts.

Concerning funding, the student organisations say they will seek financial assistance from local, international, philanthropic and other organisations for the execution of their goals .

The University of Guyana has two campuses- Turkeyen and Tain- while University of the West Indies has campuses in St Augustine – Trinidad, Cave Hill – Barbados and Mona – Jamaica.