SRC Urges Jamaicans to Come Forward with Creative Ideas

The Scientific Research Council (SRC), the agency with principal responsibility for coordinating and promoting Jamaica’s scientific research, is urging persons to come forward with their creative ideas, and take full advantage of the assistance, which is available.

Executive Director of the SRC, Dr. Cliff Riley, said the agency is aware that there are many Jamaicans, who have good ideas, and simply need some support to turn their dreams into reality.

“We assist with training and financing,” Dr. Riley explained. “Our mandate is to drive economic development and we want to encourage people to allow us to look at your product…let us see where we can help you. We are fully aware that everything starts from being an idea and so you never know where that idea can lead to,” he said.

Dr. Riley was speaking at a public forum under the theme: ‘Grow Jamaica…Protect Jamaica’ held on Wednesday (September 30) at the St. Ann’s Bay Parish Library, St. Ann.

He noted that the SRC, which is celebrating its 55^th anniversary, is “truly focused on building a better Jamaica…to facilitate and build a productive business environment…one that will lead to sustainable economic development.”

The SRC is mandated to collect and review information concerning scientific research, and to create an environment that will facilitate training and technical assistance.

“We are one of only three companies in Jamaica that is certified to do food tasting. We evaluate products to ensure they are safe and good for the consumer,” Dr. Riley pointed out.

The Ministry of Youth and Culture’s Youth Empowerment Officer for St. Ann, Kemesha Kelly, who also addressed the forum, said the country is blessed with a lot of young talented persons, who need a vehicle to help them to make their mark.

“That vehicle is the SRC,” she said. “I am urging all young persons who have that burning desire to succeed to get on board. You owe it to yourself, your family, your community and to Jamaica to give of your best. Use the SRC as that gateway. Let’s create a place where we can all be proud of,” she urged.

She cited the various initiatives of the SRC to popularise science and technology including the ‘Schools’ Science Education Programme.’

“The SRC is here for everyone…I am really appealing to the young people of this country to take full advantage of all the opportunities that are available to you and to make your mark using the wonders of science and technology,” she said.