REPORT

PLANNING AND EVALUATION MEETING OF THE

DISABILITY STUDIES UNIT (2004/5 – 2008/9)

Friday 17th October 2008

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REPORT ON THE PROCEEDINGS OF

THE PLANNING AND EVALUATION MEETING OF THE

DISABILITY STUDIES UNIT

Friday 12th September 2008

Department of Behavioural Sciences

Faculty of Social Sciences The University of the West Indies

St. Augustine Campus Trinidad and Tobago

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary 4 Introduction 5 Overview of Disability Studies Unit and the Campus Master Plan 6 Teaching of Disability Studies 7 Teaching of Gerontology 9 Report on Research Initiatives 10 Report on Postgraduate Studies in Disability 12 Report on Academic Advising/Disabilities Liaison Unit 13 Report on Disability Studies Website 14 Plans for the Development of Disability Studies 15 Financing of the Disability Studies Unit – Business Development Office, UWI 16 Recommendations 16 Conclusion 17 Appendices:

1. Timeline of activities of the Disability Studies Unit 19 2. Developmental Plan for the Social Policy Programme Initiatives 20 3. Report by the Business Development Office (U.W.I.) –

Financing of the Disability Studies Unit 22

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Disability Studies Unit was formally recognized on Friday 30th November, 2007 in the first semester of the 2007/8 academic year. On Friday 12th September 2008 the Disability Studies Unit (DSU) held a Planning and Evaluation meeting where the key players in the development and management of the Unit examined different aspects of the work being undertaken by the Unit. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Innette Cambridge, Lecturer/Co-ordinator, Social Policy Programme and Co-ordinator of the Unit and was attended by the staff of the Unit, Heads of Departments and Units or their representatives as well as strategic partners such as AADLU and the Business Development Office. Dr. Nasser Mustapha, Head of Behavioural Sciences was present and pledged his commitment and support for the Unit. Dr. Cambridge provided an overview of the development and present status of the Unit, in terms of its three components, a teaching arm, a research arm and a community outreach component. Her presentation was done within the context of the Campus Master Plan of UWI, St. Augustine. She noted that the University was taking the issue of disability in an organized and structured way and that the DSU can form a significant and integral part of the University within the Faculty of Social Sciences. The presentation laid the foundation for the other speakers who brought to the fore the reality that the DSU had reached several milestones since its inception. In the area of the teaching component of the Unit, it was obvious that there has been a steady growth in the numbers of students subscribing to both classes in Gerontology and Social Disability Studies. Added to this is the fact that students have demonstrated that the information to which they were exposed have left an indelible print in their lives. These views were expressed verbally or indicated through the development work undertaken in different areas disability studies. It was also evident that initiatives were made in the areas of research, information dissemination and outreach; and apparent in the establishment of a website and in the level of research work already undertaken by the Unit by itself, in partnership with organizations of and for persons with disabilities or through the postgraduate studies which have been supervised by Dr. Cambridge. It was also clear that the Unit understands the benefits of working with strategic alliances, therefore the opportunity was provided for the input from BDO and AADLU not only to provide information on their operations but also to make an input in the plans for the future of the Unit.

During the meeting there was much discussion and many suggestions. Many of the issues centred around the issue of disability both on the level of the university as well as on the societal level, UWI’s policies on disability, definitions of disabilities and the role of the DSU at the university. A number of relevant and critical recommendations were made and it is the plan of the Unit to follow through on the proposals.

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INTRODUCTION With the official establishment of the Unit (DSU) some four (4) years after the Think Tank Conference on Disability and the introduction of the Social Disability Studies class, it was the firm belief of the staff that an important milestone had been reached. It was therefore critical to review the work and success of the Unit while at the same time develop concrete plans for taking the Unit forward so as to ensure that it was aligned to the plans of the University at large. To this end a Planning and Evaluation meeting was held on Friday 12th September 2008 and this report records the proceedings of that meeting. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Innette Cambridge, Lecturer/Co-ordinator, Social Policy and Co-ordinator of the Unit. It brought together the DSU staff and other key stakeholders including Heads of Departmental Units and/or their representatives. In attendance were: Dr. Nasser Mustapha Head of Behavioural Sciences Dr. Daphne Phillips Head of Sociology/Lecturer Dr. Innette Cambridge Lecturer, Social Policy/Co-ordinator, DSU Professor Lancelot Brown Visiting Professor on sabbatical from the United States Mr. David Rampersad Head, Business Development Office (BDO) Ms. Indira Jagassar Business Development Manager, BDO Mr. Anthony Jackman Head, AADLU, Academic Advising Disability Liason Unit Ms. Maria D. Thomas Part-Time Lecturer, DSU Ms. Karene Nathaniel Assistant Lecturer, Social Work Unit Dr. Kenneth Niles Part-Time Lecturer/Tutor, Social Gerontology Ms. Jacqueline Huggins Research Assistant/Tutor, DSU Ms. Teresina Sieunarine Tutor, DSU Apologies were received from: Ms. Michelle Sogren Head, Social Work Unit Dr. Jennifer Rouse Lecturer, Social Gerontology Dr. Mahabir Head Government Unit The meeting opened with a warm welcome by Dr. Nasser Mustapha, Head of Behavioural Sciences. Dr. Mustapha indicated his interest in the area of disability and pledged his commitment and support for the Unit.

Dr. Mustapha, Head of Behavioural Sciences making welcome remarks

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OVERVIEW OF DISABILITY STUDIES UNIT AND THE CAMPUS MASTER PLAN

Dr. Innette Cambridge, Lecturer, Social Policy/ Co-ordinator, DSU Dr. Cambridge’s presentation was done within the context of the Campus Master Plan of UWI, St. Augustine. This plan includes accessibility for all physical structures for persons with disabilities. There has also been established a Disability Affairs Unit which shared its activities with the meeting. These actions indicate that the University was taking the issue of disability in an organized and structured way and it was also firmly believed that the DSU is a significant and integral part of the University. Dr. Cambridge also took the opportunity to acknowledge the great support which the Unit has had from Dr. Hamid Ghany, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences from inception.

Dr. Cambridge, delivering her presentation

The Disability Studies Unit was formally recognized on Friday 30th November, 2007 by the Faculty Board of the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. This unit is the result of a Social Policy Programme initiative to support the integration of persons with disabilities into society in general. The unit consists of 3 components:

A teaching arm, a research arm and a community outreach component.

The teaching component at this stage consists of a semester two course, Social Disability Studies that was designed to sensitize the student population to the situation of persons with disabilities and to empower social work students in particular to develop appropriate competences to interact with and work with clients with disabilities. Another second year course, Social Gerontology, was also begun in the year 2004/2005. This course had as a goal the preparation of the student for the inevitable aging of the population and the resulting policy implications. These courses were taught by Ms. Maria D. Thomas (Social Disability Studies) and Dr. Jennifer Rouse (Social Gerontology). Ms. J. Huggins and Ms. T.

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Sieunarine served as tutors to the Social Disabilities class. Dr. Kenneth Niles served as tutor to the Social Gerontology class.

The research component became active with the appointment of Ms. Jacqueline Huggins as a full time research assistant to what was an embryonic unit at the time. Ms. Huggins has been involved in full time research activities for the unit and is also pursuing her Ph.D. in the area. Other aspects of on going research have been Master’s students from social work and sociology who have chosen to have their project reports focus on an aspect of disability.

The community outreach work has been conducted through partnerships with agencies such as the Autism Society, Leonard Cheshire Homes Inc. and Disabled People International to host seminars and conduct research. For example, a national seminar on disability was held by the social disability class of 2004/5 and the Leonard Cheshire Home Inc. Other activities include a website called “Center of Focus for Disability Studies”

In the future the Unit intends to strengthen these three aspects of its work in order to assist to advance the movement for the integration of persons with disabilities into society.

TEACHING OF DISABILITY STUDIES – Ms. Maria D. Thomas, Lecturer

January 18, 2005 heralded the introduction of the Social Disabilities Studies Course (SWOK 2007 (previously SW24A) managed by Dr. Innette Cambridge, Lecturer-In –Charge as (Coordinator), Ms. Maria D. Thomas, School Supervisor in the area of Special Education (Lecturer) and Ms. Jacqueline Huggins, who has been actively involved in working with persons with disabilities (pwds), as (Tutor). Disability Studies is an interesting and challenging journey which begins with awareness and trudges along the paths of acceptance, alignment and unto its final destination, advocacy. With an enrolment of seventeen (17) students three (3) males and fourteen (14) females, the course quickly built momentum, maintaining the interest of the students as they gained new and deeper understanding of issues related to disability and disability studies through literature reviews, direct contact with persons with disabilities and institutions which serve that population, and by their participation in course sessions and tutorials. It is heartening to observe students as they acquire their experiences along the journey. Awareness – All students at the end of the course have expressed how sensitized they have been as to the plight of persons with disabilities (pwds). Many myths and misperceptions have disappeared and given way to refined concepts about persons with disabilities.

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Acceptance – Many students have discovered that they themselves had been dealing with disability in their families in a negative manner. They were able to resolve personal issues with which they struggled for years and have begun to deal positively with their individual situations. They also feel empowered to work through issues with the individuals. Alignment – Several students have begun voluntary service in organizations and at institutions that cater for pwds. The participation of students in the International Conference hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago’s Chapter of Disabled People’s International at the Marriott Hotel on 7th December, 2006, was indicative of this. One Social Work student who was on her final practicum at the Port of Spain General Hospital organized several workshops for parents of young children with disabilities. I was pleased to be one of the resource persons she invited to share with parents in an effort to enhance their management of their children. Ultimately a support group was organized at the institution. Upon graduation the same student was assigned to the Mount Hope General Hospital. There she initiated a workshop again for the parents of the young children with disabilities. It was a resounding success. Advocacy – Some students have shared how they have become so sensitized about the plight of pwds that they quickly detect acts of discrimination against pwds, in the public forum and hasten to work along with them and even advocate on their behalf. Challenges – Disability Studies is a relatively new area. Locating reading material that is reader friendly posed a problem. However, we have been able to source some textbooks that are more appealing to the levels and experiences of the students. With the rise in enrolment, it became difficult to manage the large tutorial classes. Mrs. Teresina Sieunarine was recruited to be a second tutor. She brought experiential knowledge to the team. The Summer Programme was introduced in May 2007.

Summary of enrolment for the period 2005 – 2008

Year No. Enrolled Male Female Student with Disability

2005 17 03 14 Nil 2006 30 03 27 02 2007 33 06 26 02 2007(Summer) 08 02 06 Nil 2008 64 12 52 01 2008(Summer) 11 00 11 Nil (Please note that more than sixty percent (60%) of the students enrolled are pursuing studies in Social Work)

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Recommendations :

• More students with disabilities should be encouraged to enroll in the programme. • There should be greater participation from the wider disciplines, particularly in

the areas of Human Resource, Medicine, etc., if any significant impact in sensitivity at the University is to be achieved and if the needs of students with disabilities are to be met effectively.

TEACHING OF GERONTOLOGY – Dr. Jennifer Rouse, Lecturer & Dr. Kenneth Niles, Lecturer/Tutor

To all present, Dr. Jennifer Rouse and I are grateful for the opportunity to serve within this institution in creating an awareness of gerontology and a generic view of the elderly and related topics. SOCI 2022 was first offered in 2004 and has continued with eight (8) other classes to date in the first semester and summer. When we began, we had twelve (12) students and in the summer of 2005 we had about nine (9). Subsequently, the numbers have grown to a high seventy-two (72) in the first semester of 2007. There are sixty-three (63) students already registered for this semester, 2008-2009. The course has been well received and the students have been generally awed by the information which has left an indelible print in their lives. When asked why they registered for the course, some said they heard it was a nice course, others said that it was an easy pass, and the majority said that they had aged parents and relatives and needed to know how to care for them. The students did not have any idea of the content, but eventually found the content relevant and applicable. The scope of the multidisciplinary content provided active and enthusiastic participation among the students who were also encouraged to approach the subject within the context of their own area of study. We agree that the course has created enough interest to engender support for focussed and deeper academic studies and research; we therefore recommend a wider collection of books in the library and an undergraduate programme in Gerontology.

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Table of enrolment for Social Gerontology students:

Recommendations:

• There should be more books in the library on ageing • Distance learning programmes should be established for ageing programmes • An undergraduate concentration such as a certificate or a Minor in Gerontology should be

established

REPORT ON RESEARCH INITIATIVES Ms. Jacqueline Huggins, Research Assistant/Tutor

The research initiatives which are undertaken by the Disability Studies Unit (DSU) have been in the main a response to the University being challenged to play a role in the initiation of a structured, sustainable response to the unacceptable situation of persons with disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago. This challenge was firstly voiced during the proceedings of the Think Tank Conference on Disability which was held at UWI in 2004. It has also been a response to the situation where it has been acknowledged that there is a paucity of research data or information which highlights the lived reality of persons with disabilities as well as which can be used as a driving force for the development and implementation of relevant policies. Since 2004, the Disability Studies Unit has conducted in a number of initiatives which have set the background for the establishment and implementation of a relevant research agenda for disability issues at the University. Firstly, the discussions and presentations of the 2004 Conference are presently being

YEAR NO. OF STUDENTS 2004 12 2004 (Summer) 9 2005 22 2005 (Summer) 15 2006 42 2006 (Summer) 30 2007 72 2007 (Summer) 22 2008 70

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collated to be published as a report. It is hoped that this Report will be used as resource material for disability issues. In 2005, one year after the Think Tank Conference, the Social Disability Studies class, co-hosted a National Seminar on Disability with the Leonard Cheshire Foundation, Trinidad and Tobago at the University. The Seminar which was in celebration of the 50th international anniversary and the honoring of Dr. Harry M. Collymore, (Founder of Cheshire Home, Trinidad) also served to continue the ongoing awareness building and discourse on the integration of persons with disabilities into the society of Trinidad and Tobago while contributing to the establishment of a research agenda at the University. Additionally, in 2005, the Unit produced a paper which was written by Dr. Innette Cambridge, Ms. Maria D. Thomas and Ms. Jacqueline Huggins, titled “Tertiary Education: Fostering Inclusiveness for Persons with Disabilities” and which was presented at the Fifth Annual Conference of the Association of Caribbean Higher Education Administrators at Hilton Tobago on July 8th 2005. This paper looks at enabling environments at tertiary education level with reference to the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. It was subsequently published by the Behavioural Science Research Series (edited by Professor Ralph R. Premdas) as Working Paper #9, October 2006. To date this document has been distributed and sold both locally and abroad. Work continues on this document as it is presently being reframed to be published in a referred Journal by the end of 2008. The development of the research agenda is being undertaken with close collaboration with persons with disabilities since an integral part of our practice is influenced by the motto of the disabled community which states “Nothing about us without us”. It certainly lends itself to our research methodology. To this end, work is currently underway for the publishing of a book on the issue of disabled persons speaking about research for example in the identification of research needs in the region in pertinent areas such as human rights and education. Initial information for this book emerged out of a workshop entitled “Research and Disability” coordinated by the DSU on 7th December 2006 which was hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Chapter of Disabled Peoples’ International (T&TDPI), as part of the Caribbean Regional Conference of Disabled People International. The process of analysing data already collected is ongoing as well as preparing to collect additional data. On 27th October 2007, the first of a series of focus group sessions was conducted with persons with disabilities at the headquarters of DPI. Preparations are being made to conduct other focus groups sessions with shut–ins, the deaf and the visually impaired. It is also hoped that this document will be accessible for all persons. This project has the support and approval of the disabled community. The DSU has also done collaborative work with DPI in 2007 when a research paper titled “Disabled People Speak About Research” was presented at the 8th Biennial Conference of the Association of Caribbean Social Work Educators (ACSWE). This presentation focused on both the theoretical and practical aspects of disability research as well as the lived experiences of persons with disabilities. It served as a useful follow up to the "Research and Disability” workshop. Within recent times the Unit has developed a working relationship with the Business Development Office, UWI and is currently working on a research project on grant support for autism. This activity was

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initiated by Ms. Jagassar, Business Development Manager and the project will be conducted in collaboration with the Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago while the necessary technical support will be provided by the Business Development Office. Plans are also underway to produce and disseminate evidence-based knowledge on the issues that the disabled face locally and within the wider English speaking Caribbean via a larger scale Long-term funding research project which will address the social inclusion and attainment of social and economic human rights of a traditionally marginalised section of society - persons with disabilities. This project is still in the proposal stage and the Unit is arduously looking for funding for this venture. The Unit has realised some success in developing a research agenda for Disability Studies at the University of the West Indies since the critical relationship which is needed with the disabled community (through a number of organizations of and for persons with disabilities) has been forged and work is being done in close collaboration with persons with disabilities. However, the issue of unavailability of funding and human resources has proven to be a challenge which has slowed down the rate of development and implementation of a research agenda for disability studies. It is the belief that in time the University will live up to the challenge which started with the Think Tank Report and which is being proposed by the disabled community of Trinidad and Tobago since it is poised to make the kind of contribution necessary to affect changes in the lives of persons with disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago and by extension the disabled in the wider Caribbean. Recommendation:

♦ The staffing capacity of the Unit needs to be enhanced to facilitate the timely conducting of and an increase in research initiatives.

REPORT ON POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN DISABILITY – Dr. Innette Cambridge, Lecturer, Social Policy/ Co-ordinator, DSU

Dr. Cambridge indicated that to date she has been involved in the supervision of four (4) students at the postgraduate level who have focused on the area of disability. These included:

♦ Social Work Masters Degree – The student has completed work on the Deaf community in St. Patrick county of Trinidad. (It was recommended that efforts should be made to have the abstract and findings of this research sent to the media.)

♦ Sociology Masters Degree – The student is working on the relationship of persons with physical disabilities and the work place. The field work is still to be completed.

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♦ Mediation Diploma – The student is working on the issue of empowering families of children with cerebral palsy to mediate within the education system.

♦ Sociology/Disability Studies Doctorate Degree – The student is in her third year of study. Research is being conducted on Postsecondary education and the inclusion of students with disability at the three campuses of the University of the West Indies. The student is being co-supervised by Professor Richard Scotch of the University of Texas, USA.

REPORT ON ACADEMIC ADVISING/DISABILITIES LIAISON UNIT (AADLU) Mr. Anthony Jackman, Head, AADLU

Mr. Jackman provided a history and an overview of the functions and services of AADLU. He also underscored the critical advancements the University was making in terms of catering to the needs of students with disabilities. Of major importance was the University’s official policy document which covered auxillary aids and services, testing of students, training for support staff, accommodations for exams, buildings and other accommodations. However he stated that there is still the need for the University to reach the point where the whole of the University is on board, for example, where Lecturers understand and accept the importance of providing information in different formats, and in a timely manner and even consider different ways for testing and assessing students. The Unit’s website which is located at http://sta.uwi.edu/aadlu/default.asp was the main terms of reference for the presentation.

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REPORT ON DISABILITY STUDIES WEBSITE

Ms. Jacqueline Huggins, Research Assistant/Tutor

The Website “Centre of Focus for Disability Studies” was officially launched by Dr. Hamid Ghany, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences on 7th December 2006. The project was started and continues to operate with assistance from Mr. Daren Dhoray, Webmaster and Mr. Kerry Bullock, staff members of Campus IT Services, UWI.

Dr. Hamid Ghany, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences as he launches the Disability Studies website

It is the intention that the website which is located at http://sta.uwi.edu/disabilitystudies/ would provide a forum and focal point for Disability Studies at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. To date, the website has proven to be very useful for students and the general public as it serves as the public information component of the Disability Studies programme. In the initial stages there were some issues of access but the site is now easily accessed either through the UWI’s website or on the Worldwide Web. In addition, it has a number of features which make it easily accessible for persons with disabilities to use. A major aspect of the work of the Unit is research and the website lends support to this area as the research initiatives of the Unit thus far have been highlighted as well as the research work of the students of the Social Disability Course. It is also the intention to highlight community research and other forms of research conducted by the disabled community or any researcher who would have collected useful information on disability issues and do not have an avenue for getting it out to the general public. We are pleased with the success of the Website thus far as there is evidence of the use of the website as seen by the number of queries for information as well as the requests for assistance in one way or the other from persons who have accessed the site. To date this has resulted with the Unit hosting a meeting with visitors from abroad on two occasions.

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We believe that attitudinal and behavioural change as it relates to the issues of disability can occur when there is access to knowledge and information and hence the Disability Studies website will certainly facilitate this accomplishment in the future.

PLANS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF DISABILITY STUDIES Professor Lancelot Browne, Visiting Professor & Dr. Innette Cambridge

Dr. Cambridge introduced Professor Lancelot Browne who had offered to assist the Unit with its development plans during his period of sabbatical leave in Trinidad and Tobago. It was intended for him to provide support in the teaching component of the Unit’s work as well as to provide lecturing services in the areas of Survey Design and Monitoring and Evaluation to the Faculty of Social Sciences while he was on sabbatical in Trinidad. Due to unforeseen circumstances, this plan of action did not see fruition. Professor Browne however had still agreed to attend the planning and evaluation meeting to make a contribution. He commended the Unit for the work that was already accomplished and did a presentation based on recommendations which he believed could assist in moving the Unit forward. The following issues were discussed/suggested:

♦ There is the need to enhance the staffing capacity to provide assistance for the Research Assistant. ♦ There is the need to document the work of the Unit which has been already accomplished. ♦ There should be efforts to impact policy at the national level. This can be started through the

production of a documentary of the challenges which are faced by persons with disabilities. ♦ All information on disability produced by the Disability Studies Unit should be placed within the

main university where information would normally reside, for example, the library. ♦ Inroads should be created at places where persons with disabilities would be employed and this can

be done through University students’ field experiences. ♦ There is the need for the Unit to focus on deliverables.

Dr. Cambridge indicated that the plan to develop a Curriculum Committee for Disability Studies from within the attendees would be shelved for the time being for several reasons, the chief being lack of human resources to undertake the activity. In addition, she stated that one of the short term plans for the Unit was to acquire an increased number of full time staff since only the Research Assistant is full time. She noted that there have been efforts to implement the recommendations on Disability Studies indicated in the Social Policy Development Plan (See Appendix 2), however given the current circumstances these plans could not be implemented within the anticipated time line.

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FINANCING OF THE UNIT – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICE (UWI) Dr. David Rampersad, Director & Ms. Indira Jagassar, Business Development Manager

After holding discussions with Ms. Indira Jagassar from the Business Development Office it was felt that the Unit could benefit from the knowledge and experience they had to share. Dr. David Rampersad and Ms. Jagassar graciously accepted an invitation to present at the Planning and Evaluation meeting and give a presentation which was very enlightening and provided critical information for the Unit as it seeks to grow from strength to strength. Dr. Rampersad provided a detailed look at the history and work of the Business Development Office including its mission, activities and strategic alliances while Ms. Jagassar dealt with the methodology for Donor Funded Projects as it relates to the DSU and other Units and Departments of the University (see Appendix 3).

Ms. Jagassar delivering her presentation

RECOMMENDATIONS

In addition to the recommendations made by the presenters, there were a number of key suggestions from the floor which related to the future improvement or development of the DSU. Key recommendations included the following:

♦ The Unit should operate across faculties of the university ♦ There should be the establishment of a portal for fundraising. The members of the BDO indicated

that they would available to conduct further talks about the procedure. The BDO also suggested that it is strategic to keep thinking about the next project.

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♦ There should be a meeting in a month’s time where the issues of programming and funding will be further explored

♦ There should be an advisory board of the unit for curriculum development and for the monitoring of further development of the unit.

♦ Every effort should be made to ensure the publication and circulation of the completed Think-Tank report on “Disability, Integration and Development-The way Forward” from 2004.

♦ Information presented either in the class or in research should demonstrate an appreciation of the social construction of the issue of disability. In addition there should be comparative analyses of how social, legal and economic factors create the issues.

CONCLUSION

The meeting proved to be very fruitful and has assisted to provide a guide for the way forward for the Disability Studies Unit. The staff of the DSU feels heartened by the positive responses by persons in attendance and the kudos paid for the work already completed. It therefore feels compelled to ensure that Disability studies remain a significant and integral part of the University. It is also hoped that the DSU provides the model for the other Campuses of the University of the West Indies to follow. A review will be undertaken of the many recommendations which were made which if taken on board will auger well for the future development of the Unit.

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Discussions and deliberations at the planning and evaluation meeting of the Disability Studies Unit U.W.I.

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APPENDIX 1 TIMELINE

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISABILITY STUDIES UNIT

ACTIVITY TIME DETAILS Hosting of the Think Tank Conference on Disability

May 18-20, 2004 UWI, St. Augustine.

Introduction of the Social Disabilities Studies Course

January 18, 2005 UWI, St. Augustine.

Presentation of a paper titled “Tertiary Education: Fostering Inclusiveness for Persons with Disabilities” by Dr. Innette Cambridge, Ms. Maria D. Thomas and Ms. Jacqueline Huggins

July 8th 2005 Presented at the Fifth Annual Conference of the Association of Caribbean Higher Education Administrators at Hilton, Tobago.

Co-Hosting a National Seminar on Disability by the Social Disability class of 2004/5 and the Leonard Cheshire Home Inc.

June 24th, 2005 UWI, St. Augustine.

Publication of a paper titled “Tertiary Education: Fostering Inclusiveness for Persons with Disabilities” as Working Paper #9

October 9th , 2006 Behavioural Science Research Series (edited by Professor Ralph R. Premdas), UWI, St. Augustine.

Hosting a Disability and Research Workshop

December 7th, 2006 Held during International Conference hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago’s Chapter of Disabled People’s International at the Marriott Hotel, POS.

Establishment of the website “Centre of Focus on disability Studies”

December 7th 2006 The launch took place during the Disability and Research Workshop at the Marriott Hotel

Introduction of Social Disability Studies as a Summer Programme

May 2007 UWI, St. Augustine.

Presentation of a research paper titled “Disabled People Speak About Research” in collaboration with T&T DPI

June 29th 2007 Presented at the 8th Biennial Conference of the Association of Caribbean Social Work Educators (ACSWE), Crowne Plaza, POS.

The formal establishment of the Disability Studies Unit

Friday 30th November, of the academic year 2007/8

Faculty Board Meeting, UWI, St. Augustine.

Planning and Evaluation meeting of the D.S.U.

September 12th, 2008

UWI, St. Augustine.

Presentation of on going post graduate research of the Disability Studies Unit at the Governance Unit on Implementation

19th March, 2009 Faculty Lounge Faculty of Social Sciences The University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago.

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APPENDIX 2

PLAN FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOCIAL POLICY PROGRAMME

2007

Department of Behavioural Sciences

1. Present Programme:

Minor – Social Policy and Administration 1 core course – Social Policy Analysis in M.Sc. M.S.W. and Evaluation (SY 60B) Initiatives: Disability Studies (SW24A) Social Gerontology (SY21C) Sociology of the Family (in the process of development)

2. Identified Areas of Need:

(i) Persons who can address current social problems with a view to reduce and/or (where possible) eliminate some social problems.

(ii) Human resources with advanced capability to develop policy and plan social programmes.

(iii) Persons able to provide leadership for the integration of persons with disabilities in the community.

(iv) Filling the knowledge gaps for critical areas. • Working with youth • Race & ethnic relations • An appreciation of Caribbean communities abroad

3. Recommendations:

These recommendations were made at a Social Policy Staff Meeting held in July 2006

(i) To fill the existing knowledge gaps • A social work course on working with youth • Sociology/ or multidisciplinary course(s) on race and ethnic relations • Sociology/ or multidisciplinary course on the Caribbean Diaspora

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(ii) To build capacity in monitoring and evaluation of social services and social

programmes • a specialization within the M.S.W/Sociology in monitoring and evaluation (These

2 courses can also be available to students of government). (iii) To address current Social Policy and Planning Human Resource gaps

A taught inter faculty Masters Programme in Social Policy and Planning (iv) To provide leadership for the integration of persons with disabilities

• Formalize the unit in Disability Studies • Develop the summer programme offerings in Disability Studies • Develop a postgraduate diploma in Disability Studies • Develop a Masters in Disability Studies.

4. Time-line for Priority Areas

Resources Needed 2007 Summer Summer Course Disability Studies completed 2007-2008 Formalize a Disability Studies Unit completed 2007 – 2008 Begin course on Sociology of the Family P/T Lecturer 2008 – 2009 Specialization in Monitoring & 1 specialist

Evaluation within the M.S.W./M.Sc. Soc F/T in Evaluation

2008-2009 Postgraduate Diploma / Masters programme 2 full-time Disability Studies academic staff

2009-2010 M.Sc. Social Policy & Planning 2 full-time academic staff The areas that have not been identified as priority areas can be developed by other staff members who consider these areas to be relevant to tertiary education today. These include a course(s) on the Caribbean Diaspora and race and ethnic relations and a social work course on working with youth. Innette Cambridge Coordinator Social Policy Programme

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APPENDIX 3

Report by Business Development Office (U.W.I.)

MISSION

To identify and develop revenue generating opportunities for Funding the Enterprise through:

• Business development • Creation and strengthening the culture of grantsmanship • Philanthropy • Commercialization • Recognising and leveraging IP potential and • Consulting activities

EXISTING ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Director

4 Business Development Managers

Administrative Assistant

Research Assistant

SecretaryOffice

Attendant

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RATIONALE FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

The Business Development Office (BDO) - established in 2002 Mandate: (i) income generation (ii) development of proposals for both public and private funding locally, regionally and internationally of research projects and consulting interventions (iii) fundraising

RELATIONSHIPS

• Report to, and support for, the Campus Principal • Work with the Marketing and Communications Office; and the • International Office to promote the UWI through the leveraging of its intellectual capital

InternationalOffice

Marketing and

Communications

CITSIDU

FacultiesDepartments

CentresUnits

Bursary

Registry

Campus Coordinator

For GraduateStudies andResearch

PVC Research

andInnovation

PVC Planningand

Development

UniversityCouncil

BDO (CH)Sponsored

Research (M)

ConsultancyCompany

CampusPrincipal

BusinessDevelopment

Office

Relationships

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SUPPORTING ROLES

1. Office of the Campus Principal

• Developmental (new strategies, projects) • Representational (internal and external) • Policy Advice (on a variety of issues falling within the BDO’s purview) • Special Initiatives mandated by the Campus Principal (e.g. Caroni Lands, ALNG, ROYTEC)

2. University/Campus, Faculties and Departments

• Developmental (new approaches, projects, training, Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Wealth Creation; Aviation Management; Prior Learning and Assessment)

• Identification of funding sources for research – identifying new programmes responsive to national and regional needs. E.g. EDULINK

• Working with staff on proposal preparation for grant funding including customized training

workshops with the support of the IDU.

• Intellectual Property advice, protection and commercialization

3. University/Campus, Faculties and Departments

• Project management for consultancies: Overseeing proposal preparation Contract negotiation Creation and management of multi-disciplinary teams and stakeholder relations Provision of technical and legal advice on agreements and Contracts

• Strategic change initiatives : Arts in Action

Graphite Laboratory CLL National Herbarium

• Qualitative impact of the BDO initiatives in the Campus and University

____________________________________________________________

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MAJOR CONFERENCES

• Business Banking and Finance • FTAA • Critical Thinking • V.S. Naipaul • Cross Border Security

ACTIVITIES/ACHIEVEMENTS

Since 2002, secured and managed Projects worth over TT$ 69,000,000.00

• leveraged technical expertise,

• linked research and outreach with funding sources

• engaged in philanthropic fund-raising activities.

• engaged in identification and protection of Intellectual Property,

• worked on a number of developmental projects

• developed customized training programmes for the public and private sectors

• created and nurtured significant partnerships and relationships

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OUTREACH AND STRATEGIC ALLIANCES

Business development, funding, philanthropic and consulting activities 1. Private sector: local and international

• Energy sector for business development and philanthropy • Employers organizations - TTMA, TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce, STCIC - for

intelligence gathering, showcasing the UWI expertise; • Financial services sector through conferences; • Customised programmes such as The Executive Leadership and Management Programme

for ANSA McAL, Marketing Programmes for UniLever); • International trade missions: relationship with E-Teck (Georgia and South East Asia)

$25,000.00 $1,112,750.00 $3,853,392.51 $2,244,333.37 $6,401,259.10 $55,559,693.90

$-

$10,000,000.00

$20,000,000.00

$30,000,000.00

$40,000,000.00

$50,000,000.00

$60,000,000.00

$70,000,000.00VA

LUE

OF

PRO

JEC

TS (T

T$)

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

YEAR

CUMULATIVE INCOME GENERATED 2002 - 2007

200220032004200520062007

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2. Public sector agencies Consultancies and contracts/developmental work:

• Ministry of Agriculture • Ministry of Education • Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education:

National Tertiary Education and Funding Policies • Fire Services

3. Wealthy individuals (for philanthropy)

INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCES

Universities and research institutions (especially in relation to research partnerships and networks/proposals) projecting the UWI:

• Warwick • Oxford • Alberta • University of Miami • Yale • FIU • Royal College of Art and Design • Iwokrama • Caribbean HEIs • ACU • ARMA

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DONOR FUNDED PROJECTS Research Area

Donor-Driven Research Initiated

Request of Concepts (Int.)

Screening Committee (Int.)

Agreement on which proposals

should go forward for full prep. (Int.) BDO helps preparation

Proposal Prep.workshops

Announcement/ Call for proposals •Deadline •Conditionalities •Inter-institutional

engagement

PVC Research / BDO / Academic Staff

Financial Bursary Technical

High Researcher/Academic Input

Search for a donor

• Objectives • Activities/Output • Methodology • Project Management • Log Frame Schedule • Inputs from other bodies