The Scientific Research Council (SRC) will host the 31st National Science and Technology Conference from October 29 to November 1, 2024, at the Jamaica Conference Centre in downtown Kingston.

With the theme “Harmony in Innovation: Unleashing the Power of Nuclear Applications for Sustainable Development,” the conference promises to be a landmark gathering of experts, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe.

According to the SRC, this year’s event aims to spotlight the transformative potential of nuclear science and technology in advancing Jamaica’s sustainable development goals, exploring critical applications in agriculture, healthcare, energy, and industrial development, demonstrating how these innovations can drive national growth and resilience.

The Government of Jamaica earlier this week signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Limited for the advancement of nuclear technologies adoption in Jamaica. Addressing the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the partnership reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to diversify the country’s energy portfolio with new, clean and sustainable alternatives.

What’s more is that beyond clean, renewable power, Science and Technology Minister Daryl Vaz said the intention is to explore the use of nuclear technology in Jamaica for waste manage and the use of radioisotopes, especially in the fight against cancer.

Executive Director of the Scientific Research Council (SRC), Dr Charah Watson. Photo: JIS

Against this background, Executive Director of the SRC Dr Charah Watson explained that the agency is committed to being a repository of scientific knowledge and fostering informed discussions on critical issues, noting that the conference’s focus on nuclear technology is timely.

“As a small island developing state, we face unique challenges in energy, agriculture, and healthcare, all areas where nuclear technology can play a transformative role. With global conversations on nuclear energy advancing and the Jamaican government’s mandate to explore alternative solutions, it is essential that we, as a nation, have informed discourse on how nuclear applications can support sustainable development goals,” Dr Watson said.

“This conference seeks to provide a platform for these discussions, ensuring that Jamaica is well-positioned to consider and benefit from scientific advancements in nuclear technology,” she added.

Over the course of four days, participants will engage in insightful discussions, explore groundbreaking advancements, and collaborate on practical solutions that harness nuclear technology’s power for sustainable progress, the SRC said, adding that the conference will also provide a platform for youth engagement and creativity through special sessions, including the Innovation Summit and the STEM Olympiad Debate competition, further nurturing Jamaica’s culture of innovation and scientific excellence.

Additionally, there are eight hours (including one hour ethics and 1.5 hour mental health) of Continuing Medical Education credits available for doctors in attendance at the event.

Conference Highlights:
• Day 1, October 29: Nuclear Energy – Governance, Safety, and Small Modular Reactors (SMR)
• Day 2, October 30: Nuclear Applications in the Medical Field
• Day 3, October 31: Nuclear Applications in Agriculture, Mutation Breeding, and SIT for Vector Control
• Day 4, November 1: Non-Destructive Testing and Expanding Nuclear Applications in Health and Industry