Phillip Paulwell (right), Minister of Commerce, Science and Technology, presents the inaugural Innovations in Science and Technology Award, to (from left) Grayson Alert and Neil Rhule, of Aura Technologies, and their partner David Cassanova of DC-Digital. Minister Paulwell presented the award along with a J$400, 000 cash prize, to the designers of the revolutionary new Fire Stream Media Distribution System (FSMDS), an integrated visual and data application suitable for mass communications, at the awards banquet held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel recently. - CONTRIBUTED
FIRE STREAM Media Distribution System (FSMDS), an integrated visual and data application suitable for mass communications, was recently named as the winning entry in the inaugural Innovations in Science and Technology Award, established by the Minister of Commerce, Science and Technology, the Hon. Phillip Paulwell.
Minister Paulwell presented the Award along with a J$400, 000 cash prize, to the designers of the revolutionary new system, David Cassanova of DC-Digital and his partners, Grayson Alert and Neil Rhule, of Aura Technologies, at a gala Awards banquet at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel last month.
BREAK NEW GROUND
Following two years of research and development, FSMDS, which facilitates the distribution of voice, video and data across multiple delivery channels across a network, is now poised to break new ground in the broadcasting industry and in distance education.
PUT TO THE TEST
A web-enabled network application, FSMDS is already a commercial success, serving the Jamaica News Network in the area of cable broadcasting. The technology will be 'put to the test' in 2006 by the University College of the Caribbean, which will be introducing two new degree courses under its Distance Education programme. Cable and Wireless Jamaica Limited will provide classroom support by sending content to cellphones, while a link with CVM Television will facilitate real time interaction between students and teachers anywhere.
The designers, who operate new media companies at the Technology Innovation Centre, University of Technology, also captured the category prize under the heading Popularization of Science and Technology.
Second place among the 62 entries in the national awards programme was taken by traffic engineer, Georgia Jefferson, whose innovation, Nutraguard, is a process of non-chemical preservation of juice, drinks and beverages, using a widely available local fruit. In third place was the Hybrid Solar Dryer designed by energy consultant, Frank Haughton. This process offers cost-effective, environmentally safe drying of farm products, improved shelf life and new export-earning opportunities for non-traditional products.
The annual awards programme is aimed at supporting efforts by the Government to promote the application of science and technology to meet the nation's changing development needs. Through this initiative, it is expected to foster better understanding among Jamaicans regarding the important role of innovation in driving development, promote creativity and publicly recognise the contribution of innovators.
