Dear Editor,
In a previous letter, I suggested that dialogue is the only tool to solve the problems affecting the University of Guyana. Over the past few years I have been working on the idea of setting up a forum for public dialogue/discussion. I wondered about whether to call it ‘A Beer and Talk’, ‘Philosopher’s Bar’, or ‘Guyana Gaff’ among other names. I wondered also, whether I should seek to commercialise it or conduct it in the interest of the public good. Along with several other considerations, I have approached several business entities, individuals, colleagues, students and even enemies to get feedback and ideas for this potential venture. I am now turning to the wider university community for their feedback. Would they be willing to share their ideas, their knowledge, their views in a public space on issues of interest to themselves and/or the general public? Would they do it for free, for reward or not at all?
Presently, I am finalising discussions with a business entity that has shown interest in hosting these talks at their facility. I am currently drafting a ‘project charter’ which will help me to determine the requirements for sustainability, continuity and so on. Nonetheless, my primary concern, at this moment, is to determine the level of interest of potential participants. I shall be happy to sit and discuss this idea with anyone who is similarly interested.
Note: I have deliberately left out some details; for example, the vision for this project and so on. This shall be revealed in time, and moreover it is subject to change based on the feedback received. Regarding the commercialisation consideration; I am a huge believer that as academics we have a responsibility to commercialise our specialised scientific knowledge. In fact, I presented a talk (started a conversation) on this issue at the last FNS Conference in 2013. Thus I am not embarrassed to be thinking along these lines. However, as in everything I do, I place service (highest quality service) before reward. Anyone who wishes to participate in this endeavour will have to be similar-minded or really good at simulating such a disposition.
Yours faithfully,
Malcolm Watkins
