On September 18, the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), in collaboration with the VALIRI Research Network, held a panel discussion titled “From Brain Drain to Brain Gain: Reimagining Research for Saint Lucia.”
The discussion brought together researchers, academics, educators, and various stakeholders to examine the challenges and opportunities surrounding research, knowledge development, and the retention and return of skilled professionals in Saint Lucia.
Took place at the NTN Studio, the event featured an esteemed panel including Dr. Aviane Auguste, Dr. Winston Phulgence, Ms. Chelsea Branford, Dr. Alisha Eugene-Ford, and Dr. Kedhma Dorh, with H.E. Julian Du Bois serving as the moderator.
The discussions were accessible to the public via Zoom and livestreamed by the National Television Network (NTN). This panel discussion is part of ongoing efforts to foster greater engagement in research and enhance conversations about leveraging Saint Lucia’s intellectual resources to support sustainable national development.
Key topics of conversation included the concept of brain drain—the loss of skilled professionals through migration—and strategies for creating an environment in Saint Lucia that promotes research, innovation, collaboration, and the meaningful contributions of local and returning talent.
As a tertiary institution dedicated to developing human capital and supporting national development, SALCC recognizes the critical role of research and knowledge creation in addressing the challenges facing Saint Lucia.
Events like this panel discussion provide valuable platforms for dialogue among academics, researchers, students, and the wider community.