The Vaughan A. Lewis Institute for Research and Innovation (VALIRI), in collaboration with Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), will be hosting two seminars this May aimed at strengthening academic research and graduate readiness among Saint Lucians. 

The first seminar, “Advancing Psychology Research in the Caribbean”, will be led by Dr. Drexler James on Wednesday, May 14th, from 10 AM to 11 AM. 

“In this presentation, we will explore the current mental health landscape on the island; highlight the gaps in psychological services and discuss how research can guide policy, education and intervention strategies,” Dr. James said. 

Students, mental health professionals, and counselors are encouraged to attend and contribute to building a robust psychological research culture in both the island and the wider region. 

The second event, “Unlocking Global Graduate Opportunities: A Toolkit for Caribbean University Students”, on Friday, May 16th, from 10 AM to 12 PM will feature both Dr. Drexler James and Dr. Aviane Auguste. This session will equip aspiring graduate students with essential knowledge about graduate school structures, application processes, funding options, and strategies for academic success in France, the US, and Canada. 

“So as an assistant professor at a Canadian university, I have noticed a stark disparity in the preparedness of applicants coming from the Caribbean,” Dr. Auguste said, “So this seminar aims to provide a toolkit for these Caribbean students who wish to gain access to PhD programmes.” 

Visit www.valiri.org to register and access event details.