UB E-Bulletin Vol 2 Issue 2

Leader of the Nation of Islam delivers lecture at the University of Belize

The University of Belize in the nation’s capital was the venue where the leader of the Nation of Islam, Minister Louis Farrakhan delivered his lecture in March.

Speaking to a packed audience of university and high-school students, faculty, staff and members of the community, Minister Farrakhan in his thought provoking lecture underscored the role of students, lecturers, and the importance of education in the development of Belize.

“The purpose of a good education is to serve others and make a better society,” said Minister Farrakhan.

In his message, he stressed to students that they have equal opportunities to excel and to contribute in the development and future of Belize.

Minister Farrakhan said that education is not only to lead us from ignorance into knowledge, darkness into light, weakness into strength, or power, but education is to lead that gift out so that when you know your purpose in life ... in (cultivating) your gift and offering your gift to make a better society and better world you are actually glorifying God. “When you educate a man you educate an individual but when we educate a woman we educate a nation.”

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He also spoke about morals, values, respect, and the love of mankind.

During his visit to the University, Minister Farrakhan also held discussions with the President of the University of Belize, Dr. Cary Fraser.

“I thank the President…. we had a wonderful talk and I learn a lot from this brilliant leader of this institution.”

Making Opportunities Visible

The Ninth Annual Opportunities Fair was held in February, at Central Campus, Belmopan. At the event, were organizations including the American, and Mexican Embassies, Banks and Credit Unions, the Police Force, and the Belize Defense Force mde presentations to the students.

High School students who attended the event were introduced to the various programs offered at the University.

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Celebrating Diversity & Educational Empowerment

“Celebrating Diversity and Educational Empowerment,” was the theme for this year’s Faculty of Education and Arts’ Education Week which was held from March 18 to March 22, 2013. Activities included: an opening ceremony; visit students and faculty to the UB Early Childhood Stimulation Centre (UBECSC) for the FEA Service Day, which was held simultaneously at the FEA campus in Belize City; and a Story Telling Festival at UBECSC. A Cultural Day was also held whereby students showcased the various cultures in Belize along with their traditions, music, clothing, and food. In the afternoon students recited stories. Sir Colville Young, Governor General of Belize and also a renowned Belizean writer, graced us with his presence and also had some stories for the audience.

Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) was also officially launched as part of FEA week.

The week concluded with a potluck .

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Deputy Prime Minister Presents Land Title to University of Belize The Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Gaspar Vega on March 5, presented the land title for University of Belize Toledo Campus to the President of the University, Dr. Cary Fraser.

This is second land title presented by Hon. Vega to the University. In September 2012, the University was presented with the land title to the campus for its Central Farm campus by Deputy Prime Minister Vega.

Accounting Students: The Challenges Ahead

The University of Belize’s Accounting Students Association in February held their first Accounting Symposium titled “Accounting Students: The Challenges Beyond Graduation.” Chair of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Romaldo Lewis, in his opening remarks said that accounting “is beyond the walls of the University,” and that accounting students will have a direct impact upon the economy.

Ernest Castro

Key presenters at the symposium were Mr. Ernest Castro who spoke on “The Role of the Auditor in Shaping the Economy,” Mr. Matthew Hulse presented on “Becoming an Entrepreneur”, and Mr. Stephen Hall on “The Challenges and Benefits of being an Auditor.”

Stephen Hall

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Endowment for the University

The University of Belize established an endowed scholarship that will create for a student from the Anglican Cathedral College (ACC) who will major in science and mathematics at the University of Belize. The scholarship will cover full tuition and fees and will be awarded on an annual basis by the University.

The Diane Sylvestre Endowment Fund is named after its benefactor, Jacqueline Diane Sylvestre, who was born in Belize to a distinguished family that had originally arrived in the country in the 1700’s.

Ms. Sylvestre was educated at St. Hilda’s College in Belize City (now the Anglican Cathedral College). She obtained a B.A. in Chemistry and Mathematics from Newcomb College, New Orleans, Louisiana and advanced degree in Physical Chemistry at Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana.

President of the University of Belize, Dr. Cary Fraser thanked Ms. Sylvestre for the generous gift and pledged that it will emphasize that the University will focus upon expanding its training for Belizeans in the fields of science and mathematics.

He said, “the endowed scholarship underscores the importance of the Belizean Diaspora in contributing to the socio-economic development of Belize by supporting the expansion of educational opportunities for young Belizeans.”

In her illustrious career, Ms. Sylvestre taught at the United Nations International School in New York City where she taught mathematics for 22 years and for 17 years served as the Head of the Department of Mathematics. She recently retired from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, where she taught Mathematics for 16 years.

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The BELIZE – GUATEMALA Referendum

The University of Belize since 2012 has been active in sensitizing students, faculty and staff regarding the Belize – Guatemala Referendum which is scheduled to take place in October this year.

In February, the University Community was electrified by the eloquent presentation on the “1859 & 1931 British – Guatemala Treaties on Belize; and its major importance to The BELIZE – GUATEMALA Referendum by Guest Speaker Ambassador David Gibson.

The presentation by the Ambassador Ambassador forms part of a David Gibson series of presentations that the University will host prior to when the Referendum will be held.

Referendum: Falkland Islands

Future leaders represented UB

While the ink was in the process of drying in the Falkland Islands Referendum to decide whether they wish to remain a UK Overseas Territory; two members of the Falkland Islands Assembly were on a tour of the Caribbean. They stopped in Belize and made a presentation to students of the University of Belize of the Referendum in Falklands at the Jaguar Auditorium, Central Campus, Belmopan.

Kudos to our History students from the Faculty of Education and Arts of the University of Belize who participated in live broadcasts that discussed the topic entitled: “The Way Forward in How We Are Governed Part Three.” Issues discussed included the need for a change in the system of Government; how much change is change? And what change is needed to provide good governance and place the nation on the path to fulfill its potential thereby providing for a better way of life for all its citizens. Thanks also to Lecturer Caesar Ross who accompanied them on the show.

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Studying Human Diseases

The University of Belize through the Faculty of Nursing Allied Health & Social Work hosted a Seminar entitled: “Studying Human Vascular Diseases Using Animal Models,�

by Dr. Paul S. Oh, Professor of the University of Florida on March 5, 2013.

The seminar served to inform and educate students that there are various types of cardiovascular diseases (Hypertension, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, heart failure, cardiomyopathy and thromboembolic disorders) and how such diseases can be studied using animal models other than humans.

monitoring and evaluation.

Dr. Paul S. Oh

Students also learnt how data obtained in animal models can be applied to human situations, and the importance of such studies in the of obtaining biostatistical records that can help in

Professor Paul also expressed his desire to come back anytime he is needed to share his knowledge on cardiovascular diseases.

Gone but not forgotten

Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of both men and women world over. In Belize, cardiovascular diseases (particularly Primary Hypertension) are a leading contributor to mortality rates.

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RLC Receives Donation of Cultural Items

The Regional Language Centre (RLC) of the University received a donation of Japanese cultural items including comic books, musical instruments, and work instruments from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

JICA senior volunteer Mr. Takashi Hamazaki, and Ms. Noriko Takemae, volunteer coordinator in Belize presented the donation to Dr. Rosemarie Modera, RLC Director.

These items will be used to bring awareness of Japanese culture to students.

Mr. Takashi Hamazaki and Dr. Rosemarie Modera

The University appreciates this kind donation from JICA.

Japanese Scholarships More Picnic Tables for Students

The Faculty of Science and Technology held a presentation on opportunities that exist in studying in Japan by Ms. Kaori Saito, Cultural Officer, Embassy of Japan in Jamaica on March 15. A documentary on Japan slow recovery after the earthquake was also presented to the students after the presentation. Ms. Saito

In an effort to make central campus more student friendly, the Student Government has placed picnic tables where students can socialize, hold group meetwas also accompanied by Mr. Hiromoto Oyama, First Secretary of the Embassy of ings, or study.

Japan.

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SPORTS UPDATE UB Black Jaguars paddled away to third place in the Belikin La Ruta Maya River Challenge held on March 8-10, 2013.

Twelve teams competed in the Intramural Category. UB Black Jaguars were also ranked ninth out of the 58 teams that completed the race.

Our Lady Black Jaguars also brought home a trophy as they placed second in the female category.

The Riparian Forest Protectors also proudly represented the University by placing fourteenth in the male category.

UB Black Jaguars team include Hector Bejerano, Alfonso Lind and George Ortega while the UB Lady Black Jaguars team was made up of Jayda Guydis, Louise Rodriguez and Shanice Ferguson. The Environmental Club’s Riparian Forest Protectors team includes Moisses Barrientos, Celso Cawich and Zane Zelaya.

Congratulations to all UB teams for proudly representing the University and doing a great job!

UB Black Jaguars captured second place in the ATLIB Basketball National Tournament on February 17, at the San Pedro Junior College, San Pedro.

Unfortunately, both the male and female Black Jaguars were unsuccessful in clinching the title in the championship games.

Thank you Black Jaguars for your effort and best of luck next time.

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The thirty-sixth UB Annual Relathon was held on Sunday, March 24, where the females emerged victorious over the males.

The males started in San Ignacio in front of the police station at 8:45 a.m, and the females started at Belmopan Market Square.

The females finished at 3:46 p.m. while the males arrived 15 minutes later. The best times per mile are as follows: Best female times: Tischelle Solis - 6:04 Irice Reyes - 6:21 Arlene Bennett - 6:25 Males best times.

Danilio Marcilio - 5:04 Kent Welch - 5:12 Uhuru Mckoy - 5:29 A total of 41 females participated for the females, and 48 for the males. This victory by the females closes in the margin of wins which is at 18-15 in favor of the males.

Congratulations to winners and all participants!

Our Lady Black Jaguars emerged victorious and advanced to the Finals in the ATLIB Football Regional Tournament that was held at the Stann Creek Ecumenical Junior College (SCEJC). UB Lady Black Jaguars started out facing SCEJC and after a tense game, we won 1-0. Following that, UB Lady Black Jaguars went against Independence Junior College which ended up in a 0-0 tie. The final game of the day was between our UB Lady Black Jaguars and Sacred Heart Junior College (SHJC) who they managed to subdue 1-0.

Our Black Jaguars started out good defeating Galen University 4-2, but unfortunately in the last game against SHJC we lost after going to penalties since during the regular time the game was tied 2-2.

We thank the UB Black Jaguars for trying their best, and proudly representing the University.

Congratulations to UB Lady Black Jaguars for emerging undefeated and classifying to the ATLIB Football National Tournament which will be hosted by Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College.

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UB Relathon—A Belizean Original The year is 1977, and Belize Technical College (BTC) student Dudley Marshall—athlete and member of the student union—is working on a novel idea to use as a fundraiser. Being an astute student, he is constantly looking for practical ways to use new educational theories and prove that education is always relevant and real-world. He spends countless hours brainstorming, eager to maximize the impact of his latest initiative while garnering support from all corners of life at BTC. After his exposure to math—calMr. Dudley Marshall along culus—in a recent class, he finally settles with 2013 MVP Tichelle Solis on a simple, practical way to utilize his mathematical skills and prove a theory through a tangible application. He designs a race between males and females to demonstrate if they are traveling at different speeds across different distances they should intersect at some point. He postulates that if the males leave from San Ignacio, Cayo and take an average of 5 to 7 minutes to run a mile while the females leave from Belmopan, Cayo and take an average of 7 to 9 minutes per mile, the boys should be able to overtake the girls at approximately mile 2 on the Western Highway (now George Price Highway). Of course the average speed—based on the strength and conditioning of the runners from both teams—is the variable that would determine the winner of the race annually.

It was such a good idea that talk of testing it gained momentum among the students over the next couple of months. Additionally, they all wondered how successful it could be as a fund-raiser for a much needed basketball court on the BTC campus. In an effort to continue building momentum and support for his idea, Marshall decided to approach lecturer Vernon Card who worked with the Student Government and was also in charge of sports. Card was struck by this original idea and started to lobby to make it become a reality and, better yet, an annual event since fundraising was an ongoing challenge. One of Card’s first decisions was to gain permission for Marshall to make a presentation for the sports committee, Principal Clive Gillett and a few others. Marshall did and the teachers were so impressed that they not only decided to support the test run but also specified that it be an annual fund-raiser instead of the regular fads such as work-a-thons and walk-a-thons. Finally, in 1978, the idea took flight and Card coined the name Relathon – a portmanteau/combination based on relay and marathon. It was such a hit that it built the relationship between the students and the staff and a healthy battle of the sexes for the 9th of March holiday. Students and teachers decorated cars, businesses were approached for sponsorship, students were given individual sponsor sheets and a mock Relathon was held through city streets to gain public awareness. Students approached family and friends to support them per mile. Coca-Cola, through Hilly Martinez, supported the idea by providing transportation for both teams. It captured the attention of people all over the country and support was found at all levels of society and before long the race-day came.

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To ensure that the playing field was level, some very basic rules were established. Since it was a relay and marathon—both teams would field a runner per mile from the start to finish. However, to not make the pace become too slow, the boys were allowed one exchange within any mile, while the girls were allowed 2 exchanges within any mile. Nevertheless, both teams were allowed only 10 changes along the entire route. To start the day, the runners all met at the BTC compound and the boys left at 6 a.m. for San Ignacio while girls took off at 6:30 a.m. for Belmopan. Then calls via the Police Stations were made—since there were no cell phones yet—and the watches were synchronized for the 9 a.m. start.

Marshall linked with Belize Telecommunication Authorities (BTA)—the precursor to BTL—and from each village along the route provided an update that was broadcasted over Radio Belize—the national and only radio station at the time. And like a great drama with radio audiences locked into the coverage, the BTA connection was lost about halfway along the route. Radio listeners were left in the lurch asking, “What happened?” Did the boys catch the girls at mile 2 as Marshall had hypothesized? It was a dual drama and the break in transmission heightened the suspense. While the play by play was lost, the results would have to suffice. What happened? Well someone in Barbados who caught it on Ham Radio decided to listen and provide the information to Radio Belize. And lo and behold the boys did catch and pass the girls at mile 2. And thus began the Relathon tradition.

While it has not been held every year, to date (Relathons up to March 2013) the boys have 18 wins while the girls have prevailed 15 times.

Initially, the rules were very simple but over time they became a bit more defined and preparations begin as early as January especially for the females. Last year, it was proposed that the Relathon be held perpetually in honour of Steve Wright—one of the first students who participated and later joined the staff of BTC—who succumbed to Cancer in August, 2011. The proposal was upheld by the Ad-Hoc Relathon Committee. This year, 2013, a new tradition is being established with the “Dudley Marshall Cup” named by the committee in his honour and for his generous donation in October of 2012 which will serve to record the top finishers and the winning team from here on.

Special Note: The Relathon is a transplanted tradition that now falls under the University of Belize(UB) banner after the merger (August 1, 2000) of five institutions: the University College of Belize (UCB), the Belize Technical College (BTC), the Belize Teachers’ Training College (BTTC) , the Belize School of Nursing (BSN), and the Belize College of Agriculture (BCA). The spirit of the pre-existing institutions live on in UB and the institution continues to build on their legacy. Therefore, UB values, celebrates and takes pride in its rich and diverse history.

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