UTech, Ja Chancellor Urges Graduates to Embrace AI and Lifelong Learning

The Chancellor was speaking at the annual Ceremonies for the Presentation of the University of Technology, Jamaica graduates held on Friday, November 17, 2023, and on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus 

Undaunted by torrential rains impacting the island, there were no empty seats as members of government, the diplomatic corps, members of faculty, staff, family and well-wishers came out in full support of the 2023 graduating cohort.  Graduates of the Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Faculty of Law were presented at the Friday ceremony, while, graduates of the College of Business and Management, Faculty of Science and Sport, Faculty of The Built Environment and Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies were presented at the Saturday ceremony.  

Pointing to the importance of lifelong learning and “keeping skills current,” Mr. Carney stated that “time is moving and if you don’t address and improve your skills, you’ll be left behind.”  In this vein he urged graduates to continuously update their skills to remain relevant and up-to-date in a rapidly changing global economy.  While underscoring the significance of forging connections, he shared, “we want to have a lifelong relationship with you so we can help you with this continuous journey of learning.” 

Dr. Kevin Brown, President, UTech, Jamaica in his welcome, extended hearty congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2023 on their hard work in reaching the significant milestone despite the “tumultuous” period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges during their course of study.  He expressed, “you worked hard, you surmounted the challenges, and you successfully completed your course of study.”  He also expressed gratitude to the “dream makers” inclusive of lecturers, administrators, family members and friends who supported students along their university journey. 

Noting that Jamaica is counting on the leadership of tertiary graduates “to contribute to a growing economy,” and to advance Jamaica’s developed country status Vision 2030 goal of becoming a place to, “live, work, raise families and do business.”   Dr. Brown further encouraged the graduates to consider themselves leaders and to create entrepreneurial opportunities for themselves and for others.  He shared, “I am confident that you will use your newly acquired UTech, Jamaica certification to make a valuable contribution to your chosen profession, your community and your country” while urging them to make an impact in the, “goods and services sectors that are growing.” 

In urging graduates to be, “good ambassadors,” of their alma mater, the President also encouraged them to, “maintain a relationship with your university through participation in our Alumni Association and other areas of mutually beneficial collaboration.”  Dr. Brown noted that as UTech, Ja. graduates they will always stand out because of the Core Values instilled in them by the institution.  

Honorary Graduates 

University of Technology, Jamaica President, Dr. Kevin Brown (left) and Chancellor, Lloyd Carney (1st right) and VP & University Registrar Marion Brown (right) pose with Honorary Graduates, Olympian Shericka Jackson and Richard Byles, Governor of the Bank of Jamaica, Richard Byles (centre) following presentation of Honorary Degrees to the nation builders at the institution’s Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 18, 2023, held at its Papine Campus. Mr. Byles was conferred with the Doctor of Laws Honoris Causa (Hon. LLD) in recognition of his sterling contribution to Jamaica’s social and economic development, while Olympian Shericka Jackson, OD was conferred with the Doctor of Laws in recognition of her phenomenal achievements in sprinting and her contribution to nation building. 

Dr. Patrick Dallas (centre), ICT and Engineering Process Control expert shares a photo with University of Technology, Jamaica President, Dr. Kevin Brown (left) and Chancellor, Lloyd Carney following his award of the Doctor of Technology Honoris Causa (Hon. DTech) at the University’s Graduation Ceremony on November 17, 2023 at its Papine Campus.  Dr. Dallas was conferred with the honorary degree in recognition of his contribution to research in chemical process engineering, ICT convergence, business process integration and the strategic application of STI in national development. 

The University of Technology, Jamaica conferred Honorary Degrees on distinguished Jamaicans Dr. Patrick Dallas, a renowned ICT and Engineering Process Control expert during its ceremony on November 17. Mr. Richard Byles, accomplished corporate leader and current Governor of the Bank of Jamaica and internationally acclaimed Olympian Shericka Jackson, were presented with Honorary degrees during the ceremony on November 18. 

Overcoming Challenges 

Sashagaye Thompson, UTech, Jamaica graduate of the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies is presented with her B. ED TVET in Business and Computer Studies degree by Chancellor, Mr. Lloyd Carney during the University's Graduation ceremony on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus.  

Sashagaye Thompson, UTech, Ja. graduate who earned the Bachelor of Education in Technical, Vocational Education and Training specializing in Business and Computer Studies was defiant in overcoming the challenges of physical disability and reliance on a wheelchair after she met in an accident. The resilient graduate explains that this unexpected turn of events significantly impacted her daily life and presented her with unique obstacles to overcome.