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About the New FIPA 

Nurturing Change in Education, Commerce, and Technology

Welcome to the Farquharson Institute of Public Affairs (FIPA), established in 1917. 

 

FIPA is a non-partisan organization dedicated to being a catalyst for wellbeing and positive change.  We define 'Public Affairs' differently.  Though criticism of institutions has its place, we avoid these criticisms and instead create some of the changes that we would like to see through advancing and practising critical thinking.  For example, our concern about the challenges of family leadership have led us to create easy to read and culturally appropriate materials on family leadership for parents, principals, teachers and guidance counsellors. 

 

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THE IDEA LAB AND FOUR CENTRES

At FIPA, our four centres—Family Centre, Mental Health Centre, Trade Centre, and the Centre for Critical Thinking in Leadership (CCTL)—are designed to embody our three core areas of focus: education and culture, industry and commerce, and science and technology. Each centre uniquely integrates these areas. The Family Centre emphasizes education and culture, the Trade Centre drives industry, commerce and technological innovation, and the Mental Health Centre merges science with education. Meanwhile, the CCTL and our Idea Lab bring together all three areas, serving as the hub for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking across the organization.

The Idea Lab

The Idea Lab serves as the central hub for innovation and creativity within FIPA, acting as the cornerstone for our four Centres. By enabling a culture of continuous improvement, the Idea Lab ensures that each Centre remains dynamic and responsive to new challenges. It also provides a platform for presenting ideas to our viewers and participants, inviting their feedback and to share their own views. Please contact us at to fipafamily@gmail.com with the subject line 'Idea Lab.'

The Four Centres are Interconnected

FIPA’s four Centres—The Centre for Critical Thinking in Leadership, the Family Centre, the Mental Health Centre, and the newly established Trade Centre—are interconnected, each contributing to the wholistic development of individuals, families, organizations, communities, and nations. The Centre for Critical Thinking in Leadership is the foundational Centre, providing essential tools and frameworks for effective decision-making, problem-solving, and reflective thinking. By promoting critical thinking, we improve family, health, organizational, and community dynamics, encouraging open communication and understanding, which are important for nurturing healthy relationships and resolving conflicts. At the Family Centre, these critical skills guide personal growth and create environments where family members can thrive. In the Mental Health Centre, critical thinking is key to developing coping strategies and achieving mental clarity, essential for maintaining mental health and supporting others on their journey. The Centre for Critical Thinking in Leadership unifies these elements, emphasizing that leadership—whether at home, in the community, or the workplace—requires a balanced approach integrating emotional intelligence, mental well-being, and a deep understanding of human behavior. Together, these Centres create a comprehensive support system addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals, families, and leaders alike. The FIPA Trade Centre empowers families and potentially Improves mental health Critical thinking is also critical in the new FIPA Trade Centre, equipping individuals and businesses with the ability to analyze market trends, evaluate opportunities, and make informed decisions in a rapidly changing global economy. In the area of trade, critical thinking helps stakeholders assess risks, understand complex supply chains, and navigate regulatory environments effectively. By fostering these skills, the Trade Centre empowers participants to identify profitable ventures and adapt to new technologies and economic landscapes, ensuring longer-term sustainability and success in the marketplace. Furthermore, the Trade Centre supports families and enhances mental health by fostering economic stability and promoting a sense of purpose and empowerment. It offers opportunities for entrepreneurship, job creation, and skills development, directly contributing to financial security and well-being. Stable income and meaningful work reduce the stress and anxiety associated with economic uncertainty, creating a nurturing environment for children and adults alike. Through the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices and community-based trade, the Trade Centre enhances local food security, ensuring access to nutritious food, which is vital for both physical and mental health. By providing resources and opportunities for personal and community growth, the Trade Centre indirectly but significantly supports mental health by fostering resilience, self-reliance, and social cohesion. Join us in our mission to drive change, inspire innovation, and make a lasting impact.

Our Mission

Our mission is to promote wellbeing and positive change by fostering higher levels of understanding in Education and Culture, Industry and Commerce, and Science and Technology. We believe that by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, we can create innovative solutions to the world's most pressing problems.

Our Vision

Our vision is a world where all people have access to education, technology, and resources that enable them to reach their full potential. We believe that by promoting higher levels of understanding and collaboration, we can create a more equitable and sustainable world.

Our Three Areas of Focus

Education & Culture

FIPA's goal is to provide Caribbean nationals with various educational services and resources that will equip them with excellent leadership skills and team spirit. We believe in fostering the development of effective analytical, critical, and lateral thinking skills to help shape the overall success of society. FIPA, through its programs, Strong People Strong Families and Strong People Strong Education, focuses on education that reshapes the society to cope with urgent future requirements.

Industry & Commerce

FIPA began its life in 1917 as a champion for industry and commerce.  Developing and maintaining a small, medium or large business is one of the most challenging acts in the society.   FIPA is dedicated to driving positive change in the business landscape. We champion sustainable development and economic empowerment for as many people as possible. FIPA Academy, which is managed separately from the parent organization FIPA, addresses learning opportunities for the Industry and Commerce Sector.

Science & Technology

In the fast-evolving landscape of Science and Technology, FIPA plans to play a crucial role in advancing research, innovation, and technology-driven solutions. We believe in the power of science and technology to address pressing global challenges and improve the quality of life for people around the world.

We are also making a concerted effort to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and have an Artificial Intelligence Education Expert on the team at FIPA Academy.

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