UG, Detroit university to explore ethnic tension resolution
Stabroek News
October 2, 2002
The University of Guyana (UG) and Wayne State University (WSU) of Detroit Michigan have signed a memorandum which will encourage research in the areas of ethnic conflict and dispute resolution.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) expected to apply for the five years, will see in the first instance, the College of Urban, Labour and Metropolitan Affairs and the Department of Africana Studies of WSU, collaborating with UG’s Faculty of Social Sciences and the Institute of Development Studies.
Among the activities planned as part of the MOU are the exchange of faculty, academic staff and students, collaborative research and training in dispute resolution.
At yesterday signing ceremony, UG’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr James Rose and Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr Mark Kirton initialled on behalf of UG. Dean Coleman A Young and Professor, Urban Affairs in the College of Urban, Labour and Metropolitan Affairs, WSU, Alma Young, signed on behalf of the U.S. based university.
Speaking briefly at the ceremony held in UG’s boardroom, Dr Rose said the signing was particularly significant as yesterday happened to be the 39th anniversary of the establishment of the university.
According to Rose the present deepening of the ties already established following the signing of the initial agreement last January, is expected to see the strengthening of a bond likely to create tremendous opportunities for both parties especially that of UG.
Professor Young saw the collaboration as one likely to create endless opportunities for both facilities and said both universities could benefit from the other’s experiences.
Speaking with reporters later Professor Young said two graduates from UG have commenced courses in ethnic conflict including the way to resolve dispute from such conflicts Other areas of cooperation are expected to include collaboration on projects or issues common to both faculties; training opportunities for both academic staff and students through exchange programmes; and the development of common areas of approach.
WSU is a public university with a population of around 31,000 students, 10,000 of whom are said to be undergraduates. The college of Urban, Labour and Metropolitan Affairs is said to be new with a relatively small unit. It mainly focuses on urban planning issues and gender issues particularly in the workplace. (Oscar P. Clarke)