Report on DAAS Recent Activities in Dominica
From its inception the Dominica Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS) has had as one of its principal objectives, a commitment to engage in a programme of activities aimed at assisting the economic and social development of Dominica.
This commitment was expressed in a number of ways over the past few weeks in the form of:
1. a radio talk show,
2. an inaugural guest lecture at the Dominica State College and
3. an appearance on the popular "What About" television show in Dominica.
4. a guest lecture on Information Technology
Leading the DAAS effort in these activities were DAAS President Dr. Clayton Shillingford and Board member Julius B. Sampson.
Kairi FM Talk Show
On Tuesday March 18, Dr. Shillingford, an Agro Business consultant and Mr. Sampson, a Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor on pre-retirement leave from Merrill Lynch, engaged the Dominica public in a spirited discussion about the state of the Dominica economy. The DAAS representatives emphasized the need to have all voices heard in the current debate about the economy and they attempted to represent the voice of the Diaspora who are contributing significantly to keeping Dominica afloat by means of the 'barrel economy' and other remittances that help cushion the harsh impact on the population of the current economic crisis.
Dr. Shillingford pointed to the work of the Academy in compiling a list of qualified and experienced Dominicans among the Diaspora that could serve as a human resource pool to be tapped for critical tasks in the development of Dominica and that it would be a mistake for local Dominicans to overlook this important resource. Mr. Sampson concurred by observing that what was needed most for Dominica's development was the utilization of the talent and experience of those who can bring a fresh perspective to the country.
The panelists also noted that Dominica is in the midst of enormous changes brought about by external factors including geopolitical conditions but that the political leadership may have failed to recognize the significance of those changes and consequently, have
not leveled with the public in terms of the kinds of sacrifices and life-style changes that need to be made to cope in this new global environment.
The question of fiscal management and fiscal discipline occupied a large segment of the two hour discussion. Mr. Sampson emphasized the need for prioritizing, goal setting and commitment to achieving short term goals rather than pursuing grand projects like the recently completed Financial Center that does not fit into a strategic vision of where the country should be heading.
Initial feedback from the public was that the progamme was a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate and was a welcome antidote to the often, divisive rhetoric in the country.
Inaugural Lecture at DSC >>>