Vol. 4, Issues 3 and 4 September – December 2021 University of Technology, Jamaica Seventeen University of Technology, Jamaica students from the Faculty of Engineering and Computing who successfully completed the Huawei “Seeds for the Future” 2021 virtual programme were praised for their outstanding performance at the graduation ceremony for the programme hosted by Huawei Technologies, Jamaica on November 26, 2021 at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston. The graduation ceremony recognized 29 students from UTech, Jamaica and The University of the West Indies (Mona) who participated in the eight-day Seeds for the Future programme hosted virtually by Huawei from October 25 to November 2, 2021.The virtual programme consisted of online courses, live stream sessions, a ‘Tech4Good’ project which challenged students to leverage technology to address social and environmental issues, and unlimited access to discovering Huawei advanced technologies, as well as exposure to trending businesses, and a cultural programme. The overall 2021 Seeds for the Future programme comprised 112 students from Ghana (58), Jamaica (29), Trinidad and Tobago (20), and Suriname (5). The students will all have the opportunity to participate in the global competition at the end of the year. Students Shine at Huawei “Seeds for the Future” 2021 Programme Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Professor Nilza Aples (left), Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), Dr. Andrew Isaacs (right), Vice Dean, FENC and Professor Sean Thorpe (center, second row), Head, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT), pose with outstanding students who participated in the 2021 Huawei “Seeds for the Future” programme, at the programme’ s graduation ceremony on Friday, November 26, 2021 at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston. His Excellency, Tian Qi (right), Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Jamaica presents Shawn Vassell, UTech, Jamaica’s Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering student, with his Huawei Seeds Scholarship certificate for his outstanding performance during the “Huawei Seeds for the Future” programme. Cont’d on page 3
Editorial Team Executive Editor Hector Wheeler Editor/Writer Michelle Beckford Editorial Assistant/Writer Jolyn Gayle Photography IMS, Calvin McKain Library Corporate Communications Unit Contributed Design & Layout Ian Beckford SEP - DEC 2021 INSIDE THIS ISSUE UTech, Jamaica Voices Voices Magazine is a publication of the Corporate Communications Unit, University of Technology, Jamaica. Please send comments, feedback and news items to: The Editor Michelle A. Beckford Corporate Communications Unit Advancement Division University of Technology, Jamaica 237 Old Hope Road Kingston, Jamaica Tel: (876) 970-5299 Fax: (876) 970-2225 Email: corporatecomm@utech.edu.jm/mbeckford@utech.edu.jm Website: www.utechjamaica.edu.jm Vol. 4, Issue 3 and 4 “UTech, Jamaica and JMMB Group Partner for Capacity Building” Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica From Apprenticeship to Graduate Pharmacy Programmes: Evolution of Pharmacy Education in Jamaica Launched 19 9 “Class of 2021 Celebrated in Virtual Graduation Ceremony” 11 Student Voices 14
3 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Cont’d from page 1...Students Shine at Huawei “Seeds for the Future” 2021 Programme Tech4Good Challenge Seven UTech, Jamaica students, along with three students of the UWI, Mona, won the Tech4Good Project challenge. The winning group comprised UTech, Jamaica students Jayan Williams, Ashleigh Austin, Elliot Tyndale, Khamali Powell, Odane Swaby, Shawn Vassell and Toni-Ann Gray along with UWI, Mona students Shanoya Heywood, Rasheed Senior and Lois-Ann Hall. The team developed an app called “EcoCLean Jamaica” which aims to improve waste collection to promote a sanitary environment. During the programme Huawei Technologies, Jamaica also announced its inaugural Huawei Seeds Scholarship programme, totaling $4,000,000.00 JMD, to “provide financial support to Jamaican students involved in the ICT industry and to promote ICT talent within this country.” First place was awarded to UTech, Jamaica’s Shawn Vassell, Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering 4th year student, who achieved one of the highest overall scores for the Jamaican group. UTech, Jamaica students Khamali Powell, Jayan Williams, Chloe Campbell and Shanya Connell were among those also awarded scholarship for their performance, including their overall examination scores, their participation and examination rate, and project results during the “Seeds for the Future” programme. Jayan Williams, 3rd Year Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking and Security, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT) student makes a presentation on her team’s EcoClean Jamaica app which won the “Tech4Good” Group Project award. JLP Education Fund and JLP Positive Jamaica Foundation Donate Scholarships for Students in Need The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, MP (3rd left), Prime Minister poses for a group photograph with officers of the University of Technology, Jamaica and Students’ Union following his presentation of two symbolic scholarship cheques for $1.5 M and $1M from the JLP Education Fund and the JLP Positive Jamaica Foundation respectively, at a special handing over ceremony held Friday, November 26, 2021 at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Participating in the happy occasion (from left are) Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, Mrs. Marcia Jennings-Cole, Vice President and Chief Business and Finance Officer, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President and Miss Robyn Murray, President, UTech, Jamaica Students Union Prime Minister and Leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, MP on November 26, 2021 donated J$2.5 M to the University of Technology, Jamaica to assist students in need, to close the gap in the tuition fees. The Prime Minister presented acting University President, Professor Colin Gyles with two symbolic cheques – one for $1.5 M from the JLP Education Fund and the other for $1 million to the institution from the Prime Minister’s Positive Jamaica Foundation. In presenting the donation to the University, the Prime Minister said that “our universities are very important institutions in the development of our society. It is through our universities that we build the human capital of our country and this human capital is so important for growth and development.” In this context, the Prime Minster also noted that “it has always been one of my commitments to ensure that whatever I can do outside of my position as Prime Minister and outside of government, and whatever I can do personally and as leader of a political organization, that I would do it to support our university students.” Cont’d on page 4
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 4 Cont’d from page 3...JLP Education Fund and JLP Positive Jamaica Foundation University of Technology, Jamaica gave a warm, virtual welcome to new and returning international students from across the region and the world, at an online reception hosted by the Division of Student Services and Registry on September 30, 2021. International students for the Academic Year 2021/2022 who hail from North America, Nigeria, China, Pakistan, the Philippines and across the Caribbean, joined the virtual reception. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, in his address, welcomed students to “the UTech, Jamaica history and tradition of excellence” and urged them “to take pride in personally committing to advancing excellence through your own contribution to building the good name and reputation of the University.” Noting the difficulties faced by international students in navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Professor Gyles pointed out that the University has made several adjustments to teaching and learning to provide the best and most valuable experiences to students. Mrs. Mercedes Deane, University Registrar, in her welcome, noted that the pandemic has altered the experiences and needs of international students, whether they are in the virtual space or on-campus, but pointed out that “despite the conditions, the choice of coming to UTech, Jamaica is an excellent one.” She urged patience from the students, noting the upheaval and the new paradigm shift, and reiterated the Division’s commitment to assisting students with achieving their goals. “This pandemic has caused us to change direction, but it has not caused us to change the focus of why we are here,” she noted, pointing out that the Division’s team of “consummate professionals” are always available to students. Mrs. Janice Sinclair-Morgan, International Students’ Coordinator, in offering an enthusiastic welcome to the students, gave them practical advice, urging them to reach out for help when necessary and to familiarize themselves with the support services at the University through consulting the Students’ Handbook. She reiterated the call for students to take advantage of the services provided by the Office of International Students, noting that the Office is always willing to offer assistance. Ms. Pauline Madourie, University Scholarship Officer, also offered greetings, and noted several support services, including international student scholarships, bursaries and subsidies that are available to assist students with achieving their academic goals. Ms. Robyn Murray, President, UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union, adding to the warmth of welcome, also offered congratulations to new and returning international students for making the decision to pursue their academic goals despite the pandemic. She noted that the Students’ Union was a great resource in assisting with resolving difficulties and lending assistance in navigating university life, and explained that many of its services were available online. New International Students Welcomed at Virtual Reception Prime Minister Holness also underscored that a deliberate effort was made to offer financial support directly to the University rather than to individuals, so that the assistance given to students identified as having the greatest need, would be a transparent and non-political process. He noted that under the terms of the scholarship, the funds should continue to be awarded to students who are performing at a good academic standard and to close the gap in honouring their tuition fees. Recipients should also be participating in the life of the University and in national life. Professor Colin Gyles in expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for the generous donation, noted that the University continues to be mindful of the financial challenges faced by students and continues to seek ways of providing assistance through scholarships and grants, many of which are funded by the private sector. “Despite this assistance, many of our students still find it very difficult and so we are grateful for the kind assistance offered to our students,” he said. Prof. Colin Gyles Acting President Mrs Janice Sinclair-Morgan International Students’ Coordinator Ms Robyn Murray, President, UTech, Ja Students’ Union
5 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Renewed hope for economic and social development in Jamaica’s downtown urban communities is mushrooming, thanks to a special partnership project led by the University of Technology, Jamaica, Faculty of The Built Environment (FOBE) through its FOBE Downtown Cities Lab @ Kingston Restoration Company (KRC) initiative, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Corporation on Agriculture, (IICA) and the support of community-based organizations. The project aimed at improving the lives and livelihood of residents of urban communities, titled “Towards achieving food security and sovereignty across the English-specking Caribbean through the creation of community gardens supported by national Botanical Gardens and their global links,” builds on models of community change that focuses on healthy eating and active living in the context of small island developing states (SIDS) and is intended to impact the three English speaking Caribbean territories of Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. UTech, Jamaica hosted project partners for a special briefing and tour of the University’s scientific testing lab facilities on July 20, 2021 at Papine campus. Giving an overview of the three-year regeneration project, Architect Dr. Patricia Green, Programme Manager for the MPhil/PhD in the Built Environment programme, FOBE and Director of the FOBE Downtown Cities Lab @ Kingston Restoration Company (KRC) explained that the project targets for the Downtown Kingston urban environment are centred around the cultivation growing, production, distribution, and consumption for nutrition, of the indigenous fungi - Mushroom; while simultaneously the Hope Royal Botanical Garden peri-urban environment component of the project will be centred around orchid growing and distribution. The project aims to interalia contribute to increased food security for poverty alleviation; develop community participation entrepreneurship skills; design and beautify urban green spaces; train students in service learning and fulfill local and global development visions and goals. The project background stems from the establishment of the FOBE Downtown Cities Lab as a private sector initiative with the Kingston Restoration Company (KRC) in 2020 to help regenerate the downtown cores of cities through research and poverty alleviation projects, and resides under a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Technology, Jamaica and the Inter-American Institute for Corporation on Agriculture (IICA) signed in 2017 for technical cooperation. Dr. Green explained that the project was put forward by FOBE in collaboration with Jamaica and other English Caribbean landscape architects with colleagues from across Latin America who are members of the Association of Central America and the Caribbean (APAC) - an arm of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) which is facilitated by an international agreement between IICA and the IFLA. Welcoming themulti-entity partnership,Professor Colin Gyles,Acting President, UTech, Jamaica thanked all stakeholders, welcoming the integration that “will allow for UTech, Jamaica to work in the downtown communities,” he noted, adding that “UTech, Jamaica is the ideal place to facilitate blending of ideas and interests for national development.” Joining in the stakeholders meeting chaired by Dr. Elizabeth Pigou-Dennis, Vice-Dean, FOBE, were Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, IICA Country Representative and other project partners, Mr Nicholas Murray, co-founder, Wake Network Canada and Ms Pauline Terrie Smith of Wake Jamaica who is also the founder of the Network of Women for Food Security, as well as the Association of Mushroom Producers Limited. Also participating in the discussion were Dr. Carrington Morgan, strategic planning consultant specializing in community social and economic development and Pastor and Executive Director of City Life Ministries, who noted his organization’s extensive years of experience in connecting with vulnerable groups in the innercity through ministry, training and empowerment, and Dr. Andrew Lamm, Vice-Dean, Faculty of Science and Sport with whom FOBE is collaborating for the Mushroom production project with respect to clinical research and biomass analysis of the fungi. Stakeholders in discussion (from left) during a courtesy call and introductory meeting held Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at the University of Technology, Jamaica Papine Campus - Arch. Dr. Patricia Green, Programme Manager, MPhil/PhD in the Built Environment programme, Faculty of The Built Environment (FOBE), Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, Inter-American Institute for Corporation on Agriculture, (IICA) Representative in Jamaica, Ms Pauline Terrie Smith, CEO, Wake Jamaica, Mr Nicholas Murray, co-founder, Wake Network Canada, Dr. Elizabeth Pigou-Dennis, Vice-Dean, FOBE, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Dr. Andrew Lamm, Vice-Dean, Faculty of Science and Sport (FOSS) and Dr. Carrington Morgan, Pastor and Executive Director, City Life Ministries. UTech, Jamaica, IICA and other Partners Collaborate on Mushroom Cultivation Project for Food Security
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 6 The School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT) in the Faculty of Engineering and Computing has moved a step closer to establishing a state of the art Internet of Things (IOT) lab to enhance teaching and learning, made possible by a donation of a SMART robot and a suite of cutting edge technology devices donated by digital transformation products and services company, Innovate10x. The donation was formerly presented by Sheldon Powe, Founder and CEO, Innovate 10x to Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Professor Nilza Aples along with Head, SCIT, Professor Sean Thorpe, joined by Programme Director and lectures in the School at the University’s Papine Campus on September 9, 2021. Noting that there is a high demand for competent graduates in ICT, Powe expressed that he was happy to be making the donation of the Cruzr robot and accompanying enabling devices at the start of the new academic year to expose students to learning through programming, testing and innovating software solutions particularly in such high demand areas as energy conservation and security. “The whole idea is for students to create solutions that can be commercialized and create jobs for themselves and others,” he noted. The Cruzr robot is a new business robot offering multiple customer service-oriented features and a wide range of functionalities useful in various industries. These include such capabilities as finger print and facial recognition biometrics and RFID systems. Prof. Thorpe in expressing gratitude to Innovate10X for the generous donation of the cutting edge technology estimated to be valued at over $5million, said that the robot and devices will be put to immediate use for advancing teaching and learning of the capabilities of IOT technologies and systems. UTech, Jamaica Receives Donation of State of the Art IOT Robot and Smart Devices from Innovate10x L-R: Professor Sean Thorpe, Head, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT), Professor Nilza Aples, Dean, Faculty of Computing and Engineering and Mr Sheldon Powe, Founder and CEO of Innovate10X pose with the Cruzr Robot gifted to the University by Powe’s company at a handing over presentation on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at SCIT, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Caribbean Sustainable Energy and Innovation Institute (CSEII), in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), on Monday, August 30, 2021, hosted a webinar on Green Engineering for Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MOYEI) teachers of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Over a hundred and twenty teachers were in attendance. The group also included CAPE Industrial Education teachers, with three senior education officers, the Assistant Chief Education Officer, Core Curriculum and Support Services, also in attendance. Mr. Roy Taylor, Senior Education Officer, Industrial Education Technical and Vocational Unit. Dr. Ruth Potopsingh, Associate Vice President, Sustainable Energy and Head of the CSEII gave the foundational lecture on Sustainable Development and Sustainability, the backbone of Green Engineering. The interactive session provided opportunity for participants to clarify and demonstrate their understanding of the environmental, economic and sociopolitical sustainability linkages with engineering and industrial technology. Dr. Damian Graham, Programme Director and Lecturer, FENC gave an engaging presentation on Green Supply Chain Management. He highlighted the use of the Balanced Score Card Measures for Sustainability and opportunities in the field for teachers as well as students wishing to study the subject at UTech, Jamaica, which could improve their occupations and personal lives. Dr. Garfield Young, Dean, Faculty of The Built Environment (FOBE), who gave closing remarks, thanked the teachers, Education Officers and other participants for attending. He used the opportunity to introduce some courses of study in several faculties including FOBE, FENC and the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS). Special highlight was given to the MSc. in Sustainable Energy and Climate Change offered by the CSEII and the Faculty of The Built Environment, noting that one of the programme’s graduate students in 2020, had achieved the three top passes in CAPE Green Engineering in the Caribbean. Caribbean Sustainable Energy and Innovation Institute (CSEII) Hosts Green Engineering Webinar
7 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica UTech, Jamaica Faculty of Law students were recruited in July 2021 by the National Land Agency (NLA) for a summer internship programme in which they were specially trained to assist the Agency in achieving the objective of registering at least ten thousand (10,000) Certificates of Title for the year. A team of nine students comprising, Jason Baker, Leandra Samuels, Britnie Edwards, Tazzeel Walker, Annay Wheatle, Amelia Leveridge-Ellis, Diana Minto, Tyler Rae Rerrie and Danika Bourge served in this worthy capacity. The initiative supported the NLA in its mandate by the Government of Jamaica, to issue within three years, twenty thousand Certificates of Title for land. This Systematic Land Registration programme as established by the NLA has direct positive implications for the people of Jamaica as it will make available the opportunity to have a Certificate of Title issued for otherwise unregistered land. The Faculty of Law students were applauded by the NLA for their professionalism and efficiency in assisting the NLA in the special programme. The students, who had previously completed their Real Property Law module under the guidance of their Law Lecturers Ms. Tanya Golaub and Ms. Shanice Trowers, brought their knowledge as a foundation in understanding the Title Registration process. Nursing Student, Sashana Simmonds Cops First Runner Up LASCO/NAJ Nursing Student of the Year Award Faculty of Law Summer Internship Students Applauded for Commendable Service to the National Land Agency (NLA) Sashana Simmonds, Third Year Nursing student, Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON), College of Health Sciences (COHS) emerged first runner up in the LASCO/Nurses’ Association of Jamaica (NAJ) Nursing Student of the Year Competition, announced by the organizers on July 23, 2021. Miss Simmonds was coached by Mrs. Anthonette Patterson Bartley, Programme Director, Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Mr. Javel McGowan, Clinical Instructor, CSON. Sashana Simmonds Mrs. Danielle Cunningham, Beverages Marketing Manager, LASCO presents Miss Sashana Simmonds (right), 3rd Year Nursing student, Caribbean School of Nursingbwith the LASCO/ NAJ Nursing Student of the Year Competition First Runner Up trophy at the awards ceremony held July 23, 2021 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. L-R: Faculty of Law students who served as Summer interns with the National Land Agency: Tyler Rae Rerrie, Tazeel Walker, Leandra Samuels, Jason Baker, Annay Wheatle and Amelia Leveridge-Ellis.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 8 BSc. in Mines and Quarry Management Launched University of Technology, Jamaica through its Faculty of The Built Environment (FOBE) on September 17, 2021 launched the new Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Mines and Quarry Management. Development of the degree which was supported through grant funding under the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of StatesEuropean Union (EU) Development Minerals Programme was hosted virtually by Dean, FOBE, Dr. Garfield Young. The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) reports that the capacity-building initiative aims to build the profile and improve the management of development minerals, including industrial and construction materials, and dimension and semi-precious stones. It is an initiative of the ACP Group of States, financed by the EU and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and implemented by UNDP. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Minister of Transport and Mining, Hon. Robert Montague said that the degree programme represents another milestone in the continued advancement of the country’s mining and minerals sector through the provision of tertiary-level training and certification of personnel. He noted that “mineral extraction and mineral development require, among other prerequisites, trained and qualified personnel to ensure efficiency, environmental compatibility, safety and profitability,” adding that “it is the Government’s intention to lift the human resource standard within the mining sector through establishment of a Mining Management Institute that will provide training and certification of all workers.” Minister Montague expressed confidence that UTech, Jamaica’s curriculum for the BSc. in Mines and Quarry Management would cover knowledge and skills needed in such important areas as proper record-keeping; health and safety rules and systems; equipment selection and maintenance; resource evaluation; land rehabilitation and reclamation and energy efficiency. Noting that mining is a substantial part of the country’s economy, he said that the vast majority of materials needed to create the physical infrastructure, including the buildings, roads, and bridges, are provided by the sector. Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President in his greetings underscored the University’s commitment to teaching, learning and research and the connection to the relevance in meeting the needs of society. Dr. Laurence Neufville, Associate Professor and Programme Lead for the BSc. Mines & Quarry Management brought greetings and indicated the significance of the programme and the collaborative efforts among the key partner agencies. Other speakers on the launch programme included Denise Antonio, UNDP Resident Representative, Senor Escipion J. Oliveira Gomez, Assistant Secretary General of the Department of Structural Economic Transformation and Trade, Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), Aniceto Rodriques Ruiz - Head of Cooperation, EU Delegation, Professor Daniel Franks, Program Lead, Development Program, Sustainable Minerals Institute at The University of Queensland, Australia and Dr. Anetheo Jackson, Head, School of Building and Land Management, FOBE who brought the closing remarks and vote of thanks. She specially thanked Professor Franks for his support and expressed gratitude to all members of the team who helped to develop the course of study, giving special mention to Dr. Garfield Young, Dr. Haldane Johnson, Dr. Laurence Neufville and Mr. Ricardio Madden for their efforts in the fruition of degree programme. Dr. Garfield Young, Dean, Faculty of The Built Environment The Caribbean Sustainable Energy and Innovation Institute (CSEII), UTech, Jamaica partnered with the Jamaica Energy Partners (JEP) Group to provide skills training through a short programme titled “Introduction to Electromechanical Systems” over a period of five weeks from October 5 to November 4, 2021, as part of the execution of a project by the JEP Group and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The JEP Group and USAID project, the Casual Employment and Skills Training Programme, seeks to prevent crime involvement, reduce unemployment, poverty and the contributory factors to maladaptive behaviours among youths. Twenty young men between ages 18-24 years were selected from the Tivoli Gardens and Downtown Central Communities. The project featured three components; apprenticeship, skills training and behavioural modification. During the apprenticeship period of the project, an assessment of the participants’ strengths and areas of interest for training, certification and employability was completed. Mr. Dwaine Hibbert, Electrical Engineer and Lecturer in the School of Engineering, Electrical Programme was principal instructor on the programme. The delivery of this course was funded by the JEP through the USAID. CSEII and Jamaica Energy Partners Group Collaborate on Skills Training Programme A participant in the Casual Employment and Skills Training Programme demonstrates the use of the multimeter to Dr. Ruth Potopsingh, AVP, CSEII with guidance from lead instructor, Mr. Dwaine Hibbert, Lecturer, School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing
9 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Dr. Wesley Hughes, CD, Adjunct Professor, Economics, Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Caribbean Sustainable Energy and Innovation Institute (CSEII), UTech, Jamaica on November 23, 2021 presented a compelling and urgent argument for the introduction and establishment of a new green industry policy for Jamaica. Dr. Hughes was delivering his virtual Distinguished Public Lecture on the topic “Driving Jamaica’s Transformation through A New Green Industrial Policy” via Zoom. Dr. Hughes, while emphasizing the need for the continuous growth, expansion, diversification and development of the Jamaican economy, called for the introduction of an environmental and ecological friendly industrial policy as the basis for growth and development that respects and protects the environment, noting “we cannot assume that we can continue to grow our economy the old way, where we destroy the environment, and take very little care of the gift of nature; our ecology. It is not sustainable,” he stressed. Industry, Dr. Hughes explained, is not limited to manufacturing, but encompasses economic activities including agriculture, agro processing, construction and the entire economic sphere which is resting on the ecology of the country. In establishing the way forward, Dr. Hughes looked back at the industrial policies of the 1950s to mid-1970s, which he described as the “Golden Era of Industry” where the Jamaican economy rapidly grew by an average of 8% per annum, fueled by expansion into bauxite. “We embarked on the development strategy which was based on the importation of capital to drive the growth and expansion of industry,” which he noted aligned with the growth and development strategies being supported at the time. These strategies had the government University of Technology, Jamaica, through its Technology Innovation Centre (TIC), formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the JMMB Group SME Resource Centre on November 24, 2021 at a signing ceremony at the JMMB Group Head Office, which cements a fiveyear agreement that will enable micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), who are a part of the JMMB SME Resource Centre’s Accelerator Programme, to benefit from capacity building programmes offered by TIC. This move will bolster these MSME’s expertise and also build their network in a bid to assist them to scale and grow. Under this MoU, these MSMEs will have access to training and support services, as well as an initial Growth Wheel assessment to further examine and understand their businesses’ strengths and areas of improvement, so that a clear roadmap may be created to nurture, scale and grow these businesses along their life cycles. Through this partnership, SMEs will have the opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills and capacity-building through training sessions on a range of topics, including: accounting and taxation, financial management, marketing, business planning, project management, operations management, human resource management, copyright and legal issues, ethics, commercial negotiation and export planning. Clients in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, where JMMB Group opened the doors of its SME unit, are set to benefit from the full range of services offered by the Technology Innovation Centre, under this MoU. Additionally, these clients will have access to the JMMB Group SME ecosystem and its partners’ services, at discounted rates, and the TIC’s best practices bi-monthly workshops. UTech, Jamaica and JMMB Group stakeholder partners pose for a group photo following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions, held Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at the JMMB Group’s Head Offices, Kingston. Seated from left are Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, COBAM, Mrs. Shani Duncan-Falconer, Senior Corporate Manager, JMMB Group SME Resource Centre and Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica. Standing (L-R) are Mr. Nigel Cooper, Head, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership, Dr. Claire Sutherland, Senior Director, Institutional and International Linkages and Mrs. Andrea Bolton-Fyffe, Incubator Manager, Technology Innovation Centre, UTech, Jamaica. Dr. Wesley Hughes, CD, Adjunct Professor, CSEII Calls for the Implementation of a New Green Industrial Policy UTech, Jamaica and JMMB Group Sign MoU to Bolster Capacity of MSMEs in Jamaica & Trinidad and Tobago Cont’d on page 10
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 10 as their centre, encouraging industry through offering incentives, such as subsidies, trade restrictions and lower interest rates. Dr. Hughes lamented, however, that “this growth was at a huge cost in terms of the environment”, where harmful practices including dumping effluents into the harbor, destruction of the beaches, forests and underground water supply systems were carried out, not just in Jamaica but globally, with very little regard to the consequences. The challenge following this period, Dr. Hughes highlighted, was the need to resume growth, in conditions created by the pandemic, in the era of climate change, and to preserve the environment and protect the ecosystem. Dr. Hughes noted that Jamaica’s Vision 2030 development plan came out of a desire for a green economy; which he defined as “an economy that sustains itself; fostering economic growth and development while ensuring that the natural assets continue to provide the resources and the environment services on which our well-being relies.” Citing various studies, he enumerated the benefits of the implementation of a green economy, including better health, better educational outcomes, preservation of resources and immediate reduction in use of resources and avoidance of increasing future cost of implementation of green economic policies. Dr. Hughes noted that “institutional capacity to undertake such a wideranging green transformation of the entire economy and society is not yet in place,” and further argued that “green strategies, by their very essence, are multi-sectoral, and require inter-agency, and public-private coordination.” Dr. Hughes, in summarizing, told the online gathering, that the green industrial policy can only succeed if it is driving growth, competitiveness and innovation, increasing productivity through transforming industrial activities, and is supported by a governmental framework that coordinates and regulates its policies. The Honourable Pearnel Charles, Jr., Minister of Housing, Urban Renewal, Environment and Climate Change, who brought greetings, noted the importance of establishing infrastructure and policy to drive sustainable economic growth. Minister Charles informed that the Government is currently working to create an environment which stimulates and generates green investments, and also involves and encourages the development of effective public policies including green fiscal policies to move the country towards a green economy. He also praised the University of Technology, Jamaica for “continuing to be a leader in action in developing the minds and the capacity for the Caribbean region”. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, in his welcome, noted that the distinguished public lecture is timely, “coming as it does on the heels of the recently concluded United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which brought into sharper focus the issues and impact of climate change, and the growing urgency for countries to invest and operate in sustainable ways of living that respect the environment.” While praising Dr. Hughes for his “enduring advocacy for a ‘green growth’ era for Jamaica that is built around new investments in green technological innovations based on renewable energy”, Professor Gyles expressed the University’s continued commitment to contributing to policy and programme solutions that seek to address the urgent climate crisis and to secure Jamaica’s energy future in keeping with Vision 2030 targets. The Distinguished Public Lecture also included a panel discussion featuring Mr. Kingsley Thomas, OJ, Development Banker, Mrs. Eleanor Jones, OD, Chair, PSOJ Committee on Energy, Environment and Climate Change and Dr. Ruth Potopsingh, Associate Vice President, Caribbean Sustainable Energy and Innovation Institute (CSEII), who echoed the urgency of collaboration between public and private entities to move towards more sustainable research, development and economic strategies, as well as the role of academia, government and the private sector in the implementation of a new green industrial policy. The Hon. Pearnel Charles, Jr. Dr. Wesley Hughes (centre), Adjunct Professor, Economics, Climate Change and Renewable Energy, CSEII shares lens time with from (l-r) Mr. Hector Wheeler, AVP, Advancement, who moderated the lecture, Dr. Ruth Potopsingh, AVP, CSEII, Mrs. Eleanor Jones, OD, Chair, PSOJ Committee on Energy, Environment and Climate Change and Mr. Kingsley Thomas, OJ, Development Banker, following his Distinguished Public Lecture on November 23, 2021 at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Cont’d from page 9...Dr. Wesley Hughes, CD, CD, Adjunct Professor, CSEII ...
11 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica University of T e c h n o l o g y , J a m a i c a celebrated the Graduating Class of 2021 in a virtual ceremony streamed live via the University’s YouTube channel on December 12, 2021. Over one thousand graduates who have qualified to receive terminal, master’s and undergraduate degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates in a variety of disciplines were presented with their respective academic awards. Mr. Richard Powell, Pro-Chancellor, in his welcome, offered hearty congratulations to the Graduating Class, noting that their achievement “acknowledges and celebrates the culmination of all your years of learning, the friendships and lifelong connections made along the way, and the personal growth and development that you have gained.” As he wished them a smooth transition to the next phase of their journey, the Pro-Chancellor lauded graduates on their perseverance in overcoming the many obstacles of the past few years, and urged them to apply their skills and knowledge to build their communities and their country. He also expressed congratulations and gratitude to graduates’ families, sponsors, mentors, lectures and administrators who have supported them in countless ways throughout their academic journey. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, also lauded graduates for their hard work and years of investment resulting in their academic achievements. He invited graduates to “celebrate and savor your achievements, as you move forward to reap the rewards.” In expressing hope that the upheaval brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic will eventually end, the Acting President asserted “I am confident that your UTech, Jamaica academic certification has prepared you well to be positive agents of change and has equipped you well to contribute to rebuilding and strengthening of economies anywhere in the world your chosen careers and continuing journey take you.” He urged graduates to uphold the tradition of excellence laid out at the University, and to be “ambassadors of good values and attitudes that will preserve and develop our society.” Class of 2021 Celebrated in Virtual Graduation Ceremony Mr. Richard Powell, Pro-Chancellor Prof. Colin Gyles, Acting President The UTech, Jamaica Steel Band performs a riveting selection of “My Dream” by Nesbeth, arranged by Lorenzo Hall, during the virtual Graduation Ceremony.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 12 Professor Colin Gyles (left) shares an “elbow bump” with Professor Halden Morris, following the conferment of the Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa (Hon. LLD) on him. Honorary Graduates The University conferred Honorary Degrees on eminent Jamaicans, Professor Halden Morris, esteemed academic and educator, the Honourable Vincent Stephen Francis, OJ, renowned coach and sports mentor, and Olympian Mrs. Elaine Thompson-Herah, CD. Citations on the remarkable achievements of the three nation-builders were presented by University Orator, Mrs. Pamela Kelly. All honorary graduates expressed sincere gratitude to the University of Technology, Jamaica for the honour and recognition of their respective achievements. The Honourable Vincent Stephen Francis, OJ (2nd right) is flanked by (from left) Mr. Barry Thomas, Acting University Registrar, Mrs. Pamela Kelly, University Orator and Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President who congratulated him following the conferment of his Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa (Hon. LLD). Olympian and UTech, Jamaica Knight Mrs. Elaine Thompson-Herah beams with delight as she displays her Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa (Hon. LLD) conferred on her by Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President. Cont’d from page 11...Class of 2021 Celebrated in Virtual Graduation Ceremony
13 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Valedictorian Valedictorian Cleveland Tomlinson, who earned First Class Honours, Bachelor of Education TVET in Business and Computer Studies, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, offered effusive congratulations to his fellow graduates, noting “in these pandemic years, we came to know resilience, hope and perseverance”, following the transition in teaching and learning to online and remote delivery. He urged the Graduating Class to give back to their communities and to their country, highlighting that “we have received an immense gift from our university, and now we have been given the opportunity to make our contribution.” He also thanked UTech, Jamaica for providing a sense of community and camaraderie in an “extended village”, citing the many lecturers, administrative and ancillary staff who supported him and his batch mates during their studies. The Edward Seaga Award, which is presented to the student with the highest overall GPA in the 20202021 Academic Year, was awarded to First Class Honours graduate, Dr. Julian Walters, Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Laws who obtained a GPA of 3.91. The Award which is being presented for the third year, is in memory of former Prime Minister and Chancellor, The Most Honourable Edward Seaga, ON, PC in acknowledgement of his outstanding national service and contributions to UTech, Jamaica. HIGH ACHIEVERS The Edward Seaga Award President’s Honour Roll The President’s Honour Roll is comprised of students who have achieved the most outstanding academic performance by attaining qualifications of a grade ‘A’ and GPA of 3.75 - 4.00. This year, the following students met the requirements for the President’s Honour Roll: Cleveland Tomlinson, Valedictorian Cont’d from page 12...Class of 2021 Celebrated in Virtual Graduation Ceremony (From left to right, top row) Dr. Julian Walters, Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law; Dona Barrett-Brown, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Nursing, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences; Jodene Allen, Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences; (l – r, second row) Neethu Manianghattu, Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science, Faculty of Science and Sport, Stephanie Taylor, Bachelor of Science in Midwifery, College of Sciences and Annay Wheatle, Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 14 I am not a quitter. Therefore, not finishing my degree was not an option. Secondly, I am a firm believer in doing all things well. Doing things to the best of my ability motivated me to succeed despite the challenges. Last but not least, I am a believer in the God of the Bible, and I take His word seriously. He promised that He would be with me wherever I go. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 ESV. So, I really had no doubt that regardless of the challenges I was going to finish and finish well. Not because of any special abilities on my part, but because of the Lord to whom I submit. We asked First Class Honours graduates of the Graduating Class of 2021 about their experiences and journey to academic excellence at UTech, Jamaica. Read on for their responses. One of the greatest blessings I got during my time at UTech, Jamaica was becoming a Student Ambassador. I got thrusted into public speaking, I was able to go on student recruitment and I was able to represent the university that I love so much. I really evolved a lot after being appointed this role and I’m forever grateful to the University for giving me that opportunity. Another great experience was tutoring. There were many students in my classes that were struggling to understand the material that I was an expert in. I took it upon myself to meet up with them for maybe an hour or two a week basically tutoring them and practicing questions with them. I just tried to help anywhere possible. This was my form of community service. By the end of the semester, most of us would get A’s for those courses and for sure I was way happier about their grades than mine. I don’t think succeeding by myself is all that great. What’s the point of reaching the top of a mountain if you have no one to share that moment with? The idea of succeeding together is so wholesome for me. I also always encourage others to do the same. So that experience was also something I’m very proud of. STUDENT VOICES Dr. Julian Walters Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law (First Class Honours) What motivated you to succeed, despite challenges? What was your best experience at UTech, Jamaica? Neethu Manianghattu Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (First Class Honours)
15 September – December 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica I have always had a keen interest in the Built Environment, therefore when I began my educational path, I initially aspired to be an architect, and obtained an associate degree in Architectural Technology from the Dominica State College. Subsequently, I began work at the Physical Planning Division under the then Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs. It was only then that I started to learn about the importance of planning and development and how the lack thereof could impact a country socially, environmentally and economically. My interest in planning began to peak and I became captivated with the viewpoint that there was so much more that I would be able to contribute with a broader scope of knowledge and information. With my background in Architecture and my newly acquired skills and understanding of Urban and Regional Planning, I have that broader scope which can be fused to aid in better decisionmaking. What was your major and why did you choose it? Tracy Peltier Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of The Built Environment (First Class Honours) STUDENT VOICES What advice would you give to current UTech, Jamaica students? I have three tips for students who are currently at UTech, Jamaica. Firstly, I encourage students to apply for all the scholarships and grants which are available to them, especially, if they are involved in extra-curricular activities and have exemplary grades. I encourage them to seek funding in conjunction with their student loans to reduce their debt in the future. Secondly, I encourage students to try and understand the material they are being taught. This is as the assessments are being revised with the intent of having students apply themselves to various situations – as opposed to regurgitating theory. Lastly, I encourage students to maintain good friendships with their classmates. University is a tough place, and we all need assistance from others at times. Brianna Miller Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting – Finance and Banking, College of Business and Management (First Class Honours)
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | September – December 2021 16 I decided to pursue a Bachelors in Education, majoring in Business and Computer Studies as I felt that it was the programme which best suited my prior learning experiences. From my days as a student at The Morant Bay High School, I had been engrossed by the Business subjects, and could be seen on the edge of my seat in the front row of each session. The teaching facet of my programme also adds to my marketability as a university graduate, as I can either choose to pursue a career in Teaching or in Industry. What was your major and why did you choose it? Trodayne Hamilton Bachelor of Education TVET in Business and Computer Studies, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (First Class Honours) What were the challenges faced in pursuing your degree? Like any other university student, I had financial challenges, emotional breakdowns and the stress of just being a university student. However, I’m grateful I had encountered these challenges and many more as they have made me the woman I am today. I have no regrets. Abbie-Ann Clarke Bachelor of Science in Dental Laboratory Technology, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences (First Class Honours) STUDENT VOICES cont’d What advice would you give to current UTech, Jamaica students? Whatever your choice of career, make sure you’re doing it because you truly want to. Not because your mother, father, or society tells you to. When the going gets tough, your passion and drive will keep you going. Also when you’re doing something you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life. Life will be happier when you do it for you. Saffron Maxwell Bachelor of Arts in Apparel Design Production and Management, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (First Class Honours)
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDQ5NzI=