Missouri State University (MSU) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) based in the Caribbean will work together on sustainable community development-orientated projects, education and research. 

The universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding in September.  

Missouri State has a long history of study away and research collaboration with communities in Jamaica. 

“The MOU agreement will strengthen our connection to these communities,” said Brad Bodenhausen, associate vice president of international education and training at MSU. “It will also promote international experience, community service and shared research efforts.”

Engaging globally 

The MOU will offer MSU students and faculty opportunities to engage in potential projects and programs at UWI campuses located in:   

• Cave Hill, Barbados. 
• Five Islands, Antigua and Barbuda. 
• Mona, Jamaica. 
• St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. 

It will also allow UWI students and faculty to participate in opportunities at MSU.   

“We will increase efforts in the key areas of geology, sustainable tourism and water quality management, among other areas,” Dr. Luz Longsworth, pro-vice-chancellor of global affairs at UWI, said. “These are timely concerns given present challenges in the wake of the pandemic, climate change and severe weather events.” 

Extending joint efforts will introduce new community service opportunities to those of diverse fields of study.  

As such, the efforts will also extend hands-on learning experiences to those from several academic disciplines. 

“The projects and programs will be beneficial for learning skills related to biology, sustainability, entrepreneurship or leadership,” Bodenhausen said. “They will also help shape essential intercultural understanding and communication skills.”

Moving forward 

MSU and UWI are working on deciding which collaborative programs and projects they will lead. 

“While discussions are ongoing, there is strong interest in addressing how climate and other factors affect wellbeing, particularly of those on the coast,” Longsworth said. “Our sustainable community development goals will likely include improving sustainable livelihoods and environmental management.”

This MOU will last for five years.