The need for scaled-up training of the workforce to deal with climate-related issues and Barbados’ marine space was among the areas discussed during a recent meeting with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and the United States Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmospheric and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Dr. Richard Spinrad.
During the discussion at the Accra Beach Hotel and Spa, Ms. Mottley said despite the lack of resources, Government had a “strong team” working to push consistent messaging about preserving the environment and the ocean.
“The country cannot become world-class unless we deconstruct the systems and provide people with the requisite training and skills…,” she underlined.
Dr. Spinrad expressed similar sentiments regarding the need for more training and pointed out that there were numerous training opportunities available and the NOAA was willing to assist young people, in this regard.
“I would like to see more young people trained, or perhaps we could facilitate students to come out, see and participate, and my organisation is going to try to provide those opportunities,” he stated.
The Prime Minister and the US Under Secretary agreed that all citizens must play an active role in saving the planet and the ocean and pointed to a need to utilise modern technologies to effect this.
The two officials also discussed creating more opportunities for scientists, the Bridgetown Initiative, enhanced cooperation in the advanced deployment of the Hurricane Hunter aircraft, and investment in education opportunities in climate change and other related studies.