|
|
|
|
Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
Dr. Rodney D. Smith at the Faculty Seminar.
|
Nassau, BAHAMAS - Faculty at The College of The Bahamas, destined to make the historic transition to become the University of The Bahamas this fall, have returned from their summer respite prepared to strengthen teaching, learning, research and scholarship within the academic community.
At the Faculty Seminar that happens just before the new semester commences, faculty from across the College’s academic disciplines met to discuss matters like the changing landscape of higher education, the impending model for shared governance at the coming University, and the research imperative. The role of the Union of Tertiary Educators of The Bahamas in the new dispensation was also addressed.
President Dr. Rodney D. Smith said in his opening charge at the 2016 Faculty Seminar held on Friday, August 19th that this is an era of dynamic and revolutionary change for higher education in both the national and global contexts.
“We must become adept at navigating change and while doing so create a desire for progressive change throughout academia,” he pointed out.
“Nonetheless, as we grow and develop, we must remain rooted in our mandate of building skilled human capital; cultivating men and women capable of overcoming the challenges of today and those which have yet to materialize. They are, in essence, the true catalysts for change in this country.”
Approximately, 1,500 new students have been accepted for registration this Fall at The College which has a student population in excess of 5,000.
With the establishment of the University of The Bahamas this Fall will come crucial changes in operational efficiencies; financial management and sustainability; academic programme development and constituent engagement in the governance of the institution. As the institution evolves, the role of higher education in meeting national development goals remains an imperative.
“This semester will be recorded in the annals of history as one of the most defining moments in the narrative of this beloved institution and for higher education in The Bahamas,” said President Smith.
“This summer the University of The Bahamas Bill was passed in the House of Assembly and the Senate, putting us on the direct path to officially assume our university status. Once that Act comes into force, there will be a greater degree of inclusive and shared governance.”
The mission of the University is “to advance and expand access to higher education, promote academic freedom, drive national development and build character through teaching, learning, research, scholarship and service.”
The governance structure of the University will more closely align with international best practices and tertiary accreditation standards. For instance, the representation of stakeholders, including civil and corporate participation on the principal governing body, the Board of Trustees, will increase substantially. The Board will succeed the current College Council.
The other key platform for stakeholder participation in governance will be the Academic Senate. This Senate will consist of elected faculty, staff and students with administration serving in a supportive capacity.
Twelve new academics are joining the faculty complement this semester and from among them are five Bahamian full-time faculty, three of whom hold terminal degrees in the Chemistry, Environmental and Life Sciences concentration. Overall, 75 percent of the new part-time and full-time faculty hires have terminal degrees. This is vital, as growing a robust environment for research involving faculty and students is a priority.
One of the principal vehicles for faculty engagement in research that aligns with national development goals relates to The College’s participation in the national development planning process as co-chair of the steering committee. The impending university’s strategic plans will reflect the areas of concentration outlined in the future National Development Plan.
© Copyright 2016 by thebahamasweekly.com
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
