CASTRIES, St Lucia – A groundbreaking partnership has been formally established between the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the US-based nonprofit World Pediatrics, marking a significant advancement in pediatric healthcare for the region. The collaboration was solidified through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that creates a comprehensive framework for regional coordination to enhance clinical delivery systems.
Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, emphasized the transformative impact of World Pediatrics’ existing investments and collaborations with regional health ministries. “The OECS remains firmly committed to regional cooperation as a pathway to improved quality of life for our people,” Jules stated during the signing ceremony. He explained that this cooperation enables member states to pool expertise, harmonize approaches, and collectively address shared healthcare challenges that individual small states cannot effectively tackle alone.
The agreement specifically focuses on strengthening pediatric surgical missions, specialized clinics, and improved referral pathways across the sub-region. It aligns with broader OECS initiatives to advance equity and inclusion by reducing disparities in health outcomes. The MoU places particular emphasis on capacity building through education and training programs designed to create sustainable improvements within local health systems.
A critical component of the partnership involves leveraging research, data analytics, and monitoring systems to guide evidence-based policies and strategic investment decisions. The agreement also facilitates resource mobilization and underscores the importance of advocacy and public awareness campaigns, recognizing that child health improvement constitutes both a clinical and societal responsibility.
World Pediatrics CEO Vafa Akhavan expressed enthusiasm about the alignment between both organizations, noting: “The guidance of the OECS in translating this MoU into specific lines of action will ensure we are impacting the lives of children, which ultimately affects families, communities, and future generations.” Nadege Jn Baptiste, Head of the Development Cooperation and Resource Mobilisation Unit at the OECS Commission, highlighted how strategic partnerships enable more effective resource mobilization and sustainable impact across the Eastern Caribbean.