New book explores Caribbean, Latin American issues

Excerpt from newsday.co.tt

In an online event on Saturday, the Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies launched the book Contemporary Issues in Caribbean and Latin American Relations.

Edited by Dr Raymond Mark Kirton and Dr Marlon Anatol, the book features research and discourse on several regional issues including: climate change, education, health, security, economic development and the effect of the Venezuelan crisis on the Caribbean’s small island states.

Speaking at the launch, a proud Kirton said the book is a result of “evidence-based research on issues of significance importance to the region.”

He added, “It is significant to note that in the midst of a pandemic, which has impacted the Caribbean and Latin America, both young and experienced academic professionals devoted significant energy to do research in an effort to ensure the advancement of data driven inquiry into issues which impact both the Caribbean and Latin America.”

Thanking the college’s leadership for their contribution to the book’s development, Kirton said it showed an understanding of the importance of the discourse surrounding the lives of the working class.

He called on academics in the region to recognise the importance of data-driven research on regional issues.

He urged, “I believe that the academic communities of both the Caribbean and Latin America have a responsibility to present the kind of research and, for consideration, the kind of policies which could be utilised in favour of all of the region.

“I wish to implore our young academics and professionals to continue to contribute to the development of scholarly literature…they must provide policymakers in the wider audience with analysis of the problems and prospects for our region.”