In 1985, the Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES) was established by The University of the West Indies (The UWI) in response to regional and international environmental concerns and the need for environmental programmes within academia. The department, which was founded by the late Professor Euna Moore, has since developed into an institution of excellence in environmentally targeted training, collaboration and academic research with a strong focus on the Caribbean environment.
CERMES offers academic programmes in Natural Resource and Environmental Management at the Masters and Doctorate levels at the Cave Hill Campus of The UWI. The department also provides several short courses and training workshops to build capacity locally and regionally. CERMES has produced several hundred graduates, many of whom now work or consult with environmental organisations in the public and private sectors as well as several agencies of the United Nations. Apart from academic training and research, the expertise of CERMES’ staff has also influenced the region through its numerous projects across ocean and land and significant collaboration with governments, academic institutions, non-governmental and community service organisations.
The successes and capacity of CERMES is credited to the strategy of The UWI and the partnerships and funding of environmentally supportive organisations locally, regionally and internationally. The supportive environment not only provides students with the academic skills to succeed, but also provides opportunity for internships, scholarships and research to enable future generations of environmental stewards.
CERMES is located on the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados. The building is on the southeast corner of the campus near the Free Hill entrance on the cliff edge overlooking Bridgetown.
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CERMES has purpose-built premises with academic, technical and administrative staff offices. Almost everything needed by our students and staff members can be found in this uniquely constructed building. Amenities include:
- Conference room
- Three lecture rooms with built-in presentation equipment
- Student project room
- Large computer lab
- Fisheries Lab - equipped for molecular genetics research
- Water quality lab - equipped for marine water quality analyses
- Dry/Marine equipment storage rooms
- Shower facilities
CERMES also has marine facilities including a mooring, a small open boat with outboard engine, rowboat, diving equipment and access to beach storage facilities.
UWI Mission
To advance learning, create knowledge and foster innovation for the positive transformation of the Caribbean and the wider world.
UWI Vision
An excellent global University rooted in the Caribbean.