(City of Belmopan, November 26, 2025) – The University of Belize (UB) and the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize a strategic partnership that will enhance national capacity in ocean conservation, climate adaptation, and blue economy development.
The agreement aims to connect scientific knowledge with real-world action by supporting research, training, community empowerment, and public awareness initiatives that contribute to the sustainable management of Belize’s ocean space.
Under this partnership, UB and the Belize Fund will collaborate to:
- Strengthen research and data analysis related to marine conservation and the blue economy
- Develop training programmes for resource managers, communities, and small enterprises
- Share technical knowledge and expertise across sectors
- Jointly promote the importance of sustainable ocean management and climate resilience
- Support Belize’s national efforts to protect marine and coastal resources while creating economic opportunities
“This partnership is an important step forward for UB and for Belize,” said UB President, Dr. Vincent Palacio. “It gives our students and faculty greater opportunities to engage in meaningful work that supports marine conservation and the development of a sustainable blue economy. We are always looking for ways to connect what we teach in the classroom and explore in our research labs with what the country actually needs, and this MOU helps us do exactly that.”
“As Belize moves toward effective ocean conservation, a thriving blue economy and adaptation to climate change, collaboration is vital,” says Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts, Executive Director, Belize Fund. “This partnership with UB allows us to combine scientific research, community empowerment, and sustainable financing to deliver lasting impact for people and nature.”
The MOU will remain in effect for five years and includes mechanisms for joint planning, monitoring, and evaluation of activities. Both organizations will designate key officers to oversee implementation and ensure the success of this partnership.
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