Extended Reality Technologies Shine at Digital Pathways for SIDS 2.0 Conference

Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Wednesday, May 22, 2024 — The recent "Digital Pathways for SIDS 2.0" Conference marked a significant step forward in the journey of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Caribbean. Hosted by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Digital Transformation, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the United Nations Development Programme, this two-day event was held at the Hyatt Regency, Trinidad and Tobago, from April 30th to May 1st.

The conference addressed the broad implications of digitalization in the Caribbean, discussing infrastructure, governmental strategies, cybersecurity, economic frameworks, and public engagement. Notable attendees included regional Members of Parliament, Permanent Secretaries, and other high-profile stakeholders who are instrumental in driving the digital agenda in their respective countries.

Empowering Digital Transition Through Extended Reality

During the event, The University of the West Indies Global Campus represented by Dr Karen Rosemin, Head, Digital Learning Innovation (DLI), and Mr Riaz Baldeo, Digital Strategist for DLI, supported by Mrs. Aura Prescod-Jemmott, Multimedia Production Assistant of the Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) Division, wowed the participants by exhibiting 3D simulations and immersive learning experiences. These highlighted the practical application of extended reality (XR) technologies in academic and professional settings.

This approach not only enriches the learning environment but also equips Caribbean youth with advanced digital skills, preparing them for significant roles in the Region’s flourishing digital economy. These technologies are set to revolutionize the way educational content is delivered and how businesses operate within the Caribbean, providing tools that create 3D objects and experiences, which can be marketed globally.

Continuing Progress and Innovative Developments

The demonstration also highlighted how XR technologies not only support educational endeavours but also foster economic resilience and inclusion. By simulating real-world scenarios, these tools allow students and entrepreneurs alike to practice and hone critical skills in a risk-free environment. This successful event paves the way for future collaborations and innovations across multiple sectors.

Looking ahead, the initiatives discussed and demonstrated at the Digital Pathways for SIDS 2.0 Conference set a new benchmark for digital excellence in the Caribbean. The collaborative efforts of various governmental bodies and educational institutions underscore a shared commitment to achieving an inclusive and comprehensive digital transformation in the Region.

The UWI Global Campus Staff at the SIDS 2.0 Conference (from left) Mrs Aura Prescod-Jemmott, Dr Karen Rosemin, Mr Riaz Baldeo

Dr. Karen Rosemin demonstrated Augmented Reality content to Mr. Yoshiaki Takeuchi, Vice-Minister for Policy Coordination, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan (third from right), and other participants at the SIDS 2.0 Conference

About The University of the West Indies

The UWI has been and continues to be a pivotal force in every aspect of Caribbean development, residing at the center of all efforts to improve the well-being of people across the region for over 75 years. From a university college of London in Jamaica with 33 medical students in 1948, The UWI is today an internationally respected, global university with nearly 50,000 students and five campuses: Mona in Jamaica, St. Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago, Cave Hill in Barbados, Five Islands in Antigua and Barbuda and its Global Campus, and global centres in partnership with universities in North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The UWI offers over 1000 certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate degree options in Culture, Creative and Performing Arts, Food and Agriculture, Engineering, Humanities and Education, Law, Medical Sciences, Science and Technology, Social Sciences, and Sport. As the Caribbean’s leading university, it possesses the largest pool of Caribbean intellect and expertise committed to confronting the critical issues of our region and the wider world.

The UWI has been consistently ranked among the best in the world by the most reputable ranking agency, Times Higher Education (THE). Since The UWI’s 2018 debut in THE’s rankings, it has performed well in multiple schemes—among them including World University Rankings, Golden Age University Rankings (between 50 and 80 years old), Latin America Rankings, and the Impact Rankings for its response to the world’s biggest concerns, outlined in the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-being; Gender Equality and Climate Action.

Learn more at www.uwi.edu.