The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) at The University of the West Indies, Mona (The UWI) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot from the Department of Chemistry and Dr. Nagarani Ponakala from the Department of Mathematics as Fellows of the Caribbean Academy of Sciences (CAS). The announcement took place during the Biennial CAS Conference in Trinidad on November 25, 2023 and was followed by a Handover Ceremony on December 14, 2023 on the Mona campus, where Professor Anthony Clayton, a current CAS Fellow, presented them their certificates.

The appointments of Dr. Singh-Wilmot and Dr. Ponakala increase the number of female CAS Fellows, now totalling five (5).

At the handover ceremony, The Caribbean Academy of Sciences sent commendations for Dr. Singh-Wilmot and Dr. Ponakala on their exceptional achievements; noting that their appointments are a reflection of the university's commitment to fostering diversity and excellence in academia. “These women are excellent scientists and colleagues, and I am sure they will continue to contribute to science in the region” - Prof. Ronald Young, CAS Fellow and member of the CAS Executive Council and Former Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, The UWI Mona.

Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology (UWI, Mona), Prof. Tannecia Stephenson, in congratulating Dr. Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot and Dr. Nagarani Ponakala on their well-deserved appointments noted how immensely proud The UWI is of them. “This goes beyond your individual achievements to underscore the important role being played by Caribbean women scientists in the development of STEM in the region. It also simultaneously reinforces The UWI Mona and Jamaica as regional hubs for quality science teaching and research.”

In response, Dr. Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot stated "I am humbled because I know I am only one in a line of outstanding Caribbean scientists including some who are my mentors and colleagues. I consider it an honour and am especially elated that CAS is increasing equitable representation with the announcement of more female fellows. Finally, I am excited, as this new appointment strengthens my platform to advance my research and increases the impact of my science diplomacy and advocacy work aimed at using science to serve society and bring well needed resources for scientific research to the region. I feel happy about this achievement, grateful to my mentors and supporters, and motivated for my future activities.” Dr. Nagarani Ponakala, buoyed by the recognition, stated, "I am overjoyed! It is wonderful to see women scientists elected to serve as CAS Fellows, and I look forward to working with them.”

The Handover Ceremony was attended by colleagues of the awardees including Dr. Donna Minott Kates, Head of the Department of Chemistry, Dr. Dwight Robinson, former Head of the Department of Life Sciences and a member of the CAS Jamaica Board and Professor Emeritus Robert Lancashire, Company Secretary, CAS Jamaica Board.

The CAS is an independent, non-governmental regional science body, which fosters STEM in the Caribbean, through advocacy, advice, training, and the exchange of ideas, and represents the region on other international scientific bodies.