In recognition of National Science and Technology Month, the Scientific Research Council (SRC) will host an expert panel on Thursday to discuss Jamaica’s long-term recovery strategies in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa and amid growing climate challenges.

The seminar is being held under the theme, “Weathering the Future: Science, Food Security, and Smart Infrastructure for a Resilient Jamaica”, at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel beginning 6pm.

Through expert insights and scientific dialogue, the SRC said it aims to help guide national decision-making on resilience, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development.

The evening will feature keynote speaker Dr Andrew Wheatley, Minister with responsibility for Science, Technology and Special Projects. His presentation will frame the national context for building resilience through innovation, policy advancement, and strategic scientific action, the SRC stated in a release.

It noted that the panel comprises a dynamic group of experts whose collective experience spans geospatial technology, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, civil engineering, and climate innovation. They are:

Dr Parris Lyew-Ayee Jr: Vice President of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica and a leading geospatial technology expert;

Dr Cliff Riley: Director General of the Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority and a seasoned biotechnologist;

Professor Sean Thorpe: Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Computing at the University of Technology and an artificial intelligence expert;

Carlinton Burrell: Chief Executive Officer of the Caribbean Climate Innovation Centre (CCIC); and

Dr Leighton Ellis: Regional Chair of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Americas and President-Elect of the Jamaica Institution of Engineers (JIE).

Collectively, the speakers will guide attendees through a meaningful and practical examination of how research, innovation, and applied science can support Jamaica’s resilience pathways in the wake of extreme weather events and other national challenges, the SRC stated.

In the meantime, members of the public are invited to submit their questions for Minister Wheatley to answer or any member of the panel. They can direct message the SRC on IG @srcjamaica or in the streaming platforms.

They can follow the discussion via the following platforms:

SRC YouTube:
https://youtube.com/live/OTaeVKhnM4I?feature=share

SRC Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1766123387585134/

JIS YouTube:
https://youtube.com/live/8kgVVh44HJo?feature=share

JIS Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/events/890030480857956/