The UB Students Show Off Their Expo 2020 Plans to The PM
Photos by Peter Ramsay of the Bahamas Information Services
Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell with the students of the University of The Bahamas Dubai Expo 2020 design process on the occasion of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers visiting the University 6 February. Foreign Affairs photo.
By Kathryn Campbell
Bahamas Information Services
NASSAU, The Bahamas – Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie and members of the Cabinet got a first-hand look at the concept ideas University of the Bahamas (UB) students are formulating for ‘Expo 2020’ during a presentation at UB, Monday, February 6.
UB students in art, architecture and culinary arts have been solicited to prepare designs for The Bahamas Pavilion at the World Expo, which will take place in Dubai October 2020 to April 2021. The theme of the Expo is Converging Minds, Creating the Future.
Some 180 countries are participating in Expo 2020 and have been tasked with designing the pavilion that reflects their country’s distinctive identity, culture, national priorities and achievements and depicting ways in which they are tackling challenges.
Four groups are representing UB. The team members are: Terrence Arnold, Walter Evans III, Whitney Sturrup, Toni Dorsett, Dylan Miles, Kenaz Bethel, Matel McDonald, Royce Archer, Kacey Duncombe, Sheena Heastie and Alexis Lightbourne.
In brief remarks, Prime Minister Christie said he was “encouraged” and “stimulated” by the creativity and innovation of the projects.
UB President Dr. Rodney Smith said the presentations speak to the “exceptional” talents of the students and expertise and leadership of the faculty. He thanked Prime Minister Christie and his colleagues for remaining committed to the dream of building a University of The Bahamas.
Bahamas Ambassador to the UAE and the State of Qatar, His Excellency Tony Joudi noted that products from BAMSI will be prepared and served. Additionally, he said Bahamian artwork and artefacts will be showcased and sold at the Bahamian Pavilion.
Donna Williams, of the Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute of UB said food is a major aspect of the Expo and UB is “delighted” to be a part the Pavilion. She remarked that the students are presently being exposed to industry chefs and structures in preparation for Expo 2020.
Also participating in the presentation were the Hon. Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration; Michael Diggiss, whose firm is providing Project Management, Architecture and Design Services; and Michael Edwards and Val Flax, UB professors.
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