Diaspora Database Will Enhance Relationship – Professor Ying

Director designate of the Jamaica Diaspora Institute, Professor Neville Ying, has told Jamaicans in the United Kingdom (UK), that a Diaspora database and skills bank will allow for the development of a more dynamic relationship within the Diaspora across the world and Jamaica.
Professor Ying, who is in the UK meeting with members of the UK Diaspora in both London and Birmingham, told a Round Table discussion in London that his visit is part of a familiarisation tour, that has seen him visit Jamaican communities across the United States.
He informed the meeting that the legal work to establish the Jamaica Diaspora Foundation and the Institute is almost completed, and that a major function of the institute would be working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade to develop appropriate research, giving support to Diaspora conferences and creating a Diaspora database.
This database, he said, will allow Diaspora communities more access to information on the projects and programmes in which individuals and groups are involved in their respective countries, and allow for a better flow of information and the co-ordinated use of resources and skills.
Professor Ying told the meeting that he was part of a Jamaican delegation (headed by Prime Minister the Hon. Bruce Golding), at a recent conference looking at job losses, caused by the global financial crisis.
He said the conference, which featured international financial institutions and agencies, agreed on a co-ordinated and synchronised programme to support developing and vulnerable countries. He said that lobbying efforts by the Diaspora in this area could help Jamaica.
According to the Professor, other areas where the Diaspora can assist or become involved are in education and training. He cited the Education Transformation Programme that is working to improve facilities in secondary schools, as well as plans for a National Inspectorate for schools.
The meeting also discussed a range of issues, including the need for a better flow of information to allow Diaspora businesses to make bids for contracts and consultancies in Jamaica, and the need for the UK Diaspora to develop its own research capabilities.