Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford Speaks on SIDS Representation at ISO Annual Meeting 2024

Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford, Executive Director of the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ), spoke during a session of the ISO Annual Meeting 2024 in Cartegena de Indias, Colombia. The session, titled “A Global Community for Standards: Creating the Future We Want Together,” focused on the role of global standards in shaping the future.

As a current member of the ISO Council, Dr. Ferguson-Bufford emphasized the significance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) participating in the international standards process. She noted that The Bahamas’ 2018 upgrade to full ISO membership was critical, enabling active decision-making and representation for local interests. This participation is essential for addressing unique challenges faced by SIDS, such as climate resilience and economic vulnerability.

Dr. Ferguson-Bufford also discussed the importance of diversity and inclusion in ISO governance, highlighting her 2023 election as a pivotal step for underrepresented regions like the Caribbean. She advocated for greater awareness, targeted capacity building, and structured mentorship programs to help more SIDS engage effectively in ISO governance.

Her comments underscored the need for SIDS to overcome imposter syndrome and become more involved in standards-setting, ensuring global standards reflect diverse perspectives.

Also in attendance during the ISO Annual Meeting is Vice Chairman of the BBSQ Standards and Quality Council, Mr. Arnaldo Basden.

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About BBSQ: The Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) is a corporate body dedicated to establishing and maintaining the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) in The Bahamas. Through metrology, standards, conformity assessment, and accreditation, BBSQ ensures that products and services meet the highest quality standards, promoting consumer safety and fair trade. BBSQ plays a crucial role in upholding the quality and safety of goods and services in the Bahamian market, fostering a culture of excellence that benefits both the local economy and international trade.