The year 2024 marked a dynamic period for Erasmus+ in Trinidad and Tobago, driven by the tireless efforts of Davin Jagessar,Assistant Programme Coordinator at the European Development Fund Unit within Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Planning and Development, actively advanced the nation's educational and developmental goals through his role as the Erasmus+ National Focal Point. Here’s a glimpse into some of the key activities Davin spearheaded during the year:
June 2024: Meeting with the University of the West Indies Open Campus
In June, Davin held a pivotal meeting with representatives from the University of the West Indies (UWI) Open Campus. This interaction focused on exploring avenues for the institution to maximize its participation in Erasmus+ programs. Discussions included:
- Strategies to enhance mobility opportunities for both students and staff.
- Development of joint international research projects.
- Best practices for creating strategic partnerships with European institutions.
The meeting underscored the UWI Open Campus’ commitment to fostering a globally competitive academic environment while addressing the unique educational needs of Caribbean learners.
September 2024: Virtual Meeting with the Business Development Office of the University of Trinidad and Tobago
In September, Davin hosted a virtual meeting with the Business Development Office at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). The session aimed to align Erasmus+ priorities with UTT’s vision for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Key topics included:
- Leveraging Erasmus+ funding to support startup incubation and commercialization of research.
- Opportunities for technical staff training and professional development.
- Expanding UTT’s global network to include European industry partners.
This virtual meeting highlighted how Erasmus+ could be a catalyst for driving UTT’s mission to integrate education with industry-relevant skills development.
October 2024: Meeting with the President of the National Energy Skills Centre
In October, Davin engaged with the President of the National Energy Skills Centre (NESC) to explore how Erasmus+ could support technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Trinidad and Tobago. The discussions revolved around:
- Enhancing the mobility of instructors and students in TVET programs.
- Establishing partnerships with European vocational institutions for curriculum development.
- Sharing expertise in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
This meeting marked a significant step in strengthening TVET’s role in addressing the nation’s skills gap and promoting sustainable development goals.
A Year of Impact and Progress
Davin’s engagements in 2024 reflect a strategic approach to advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s educational landscape through Erasmus+. By collaborating with key stakeholders across academia and industry, Davin has laid the groundwork for transformative partnerships and opportunities. These efforts not only enhance the nation’s global connectivity but also empower individuals and institutions to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Looking ahead, the seeds sown in 2024 are expected to yield significant benefits, reaffirming Erasmus+ as a cornerstone for education, innovation, and collaboration in Trinidad and Tobago.
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