Prime Minister Davis delivered a signature lecture at St. John’s University on December 11, 2023, as part of the 17th Annual CSB/SJU Eugene J. McCarthy Lecture Series. This lecture emphasized the urgency of climate change, particularly for Small Island Developing States, and the vital role of educational partnerships in addressing global challenges.
Addressing the impact of climate change, Prime Minister Davis highlighted the acute vulnerability of The Bahamas and similar nations. He stated, “Countries like The Bahamas, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, face the front-line impacts of climate change. Our experiences underscore the need for a globally coordinated response, emphasizing both mitigation and adaptation strategies.”
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of international educational collaborations. He discussed the Bahamian scholarship program, designed to support students attending St. John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict, as a strategic initiative to foster global understanding and cooperation. He noted, “This scholarship program is more than an educational opportunity; it’s a platform for cultural exchange and developing global perspectives on shared challenges.”
Prime Minister Davis called for collective action in combating climate change, emphasizing the moral responsibility of the global community. He urged, “It is imperative for all nations, regardless of size or economic power, to commit to sustainable practices and policies that address the root causes of climate change.”
Prime Minister Davis highlighted the importance of dialogues like these, fostering greater understanding and collaborative efforts in tackling global issues. His lecture at St. John’s University serves as a call to action for leaders and communities worldwide to prioritize sustainable development and climate resilience.
Following his lecture, Prime Minister Davis was bestowed a dual honorary doctorate from St. John’s University and College of St. Benedict. Normally each institution awards doctorate degrees separately; this is the first time they have offered a dual doctorate.
_____________________________________
For Press Inquiries:
Keishla Adderley, Press Secretary
Office of The Prime Minister
Commonwealth of The Bahamas
KeishlaAdderley@bahamas.gov.bs