Voices Magazine-Vol2-Issue-1-WEB

The Chancellor went on to note that “the University has played a major role in every facet of national development, with a tradition of excellence, dating back to its founding in 1958, a few year’s shy of the country’s independence in 1962.” He shared that the institution began as the Jamaica Institute of Technology (JIT) in 1958 with 50 students and 4 programmes. A year later in 1959, the Institution’s name was changed to the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) and on September 1, 1995 was formally accorded university status as University of Technology, Jamaica. Chancellor Seaga stated that notwithstanding the University’s significant achievements in academics, research, sports and community service and its impact on national development over the last sixty years, stakeholders of the institution should take the time to reflect on the past and “to think of how we can be more instrumental in supporting the growth and development of our nation.” Chancellor Seaga praised former Presidents who have contributed to the growth and development of the university - Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ, who he said “was a pioneer in the building of the institution for some 26 years;” Dr. the Hon. Rae Davis, OJ for “overseeing the remarkable transition from college to university status,” and Prof. the Hon. Errol Morrison, OJ “for further expansion and consolidation.” He acknowledged current President, Professor Stephen Vasciannie, CD “for further advancing the University’s development.” Achievements President, Professor Stephen Vasciannie, CD, in his address highlighted milestones achieved by the university over its 60 year history. Among them: the first degree programme in technical education in 1986 which paved the way for many more degree programmes being added in succeeding years in all departments; the opening of the Caribbean Sculpture Park in 1999 - the opening of the Caribbean School of Architecture in 2001; the establishment of new faculties and colleges, namely the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Science and Sport and the Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences in 2008, 2010 and 2012 respectively. Pointing to recent milestones, the President further noted the successful completion of the Shared Facilities Building in 2017 which has provided much needed additional teaching and learning spaces for students and faculty and for the hosting of university events. He also mentioned the establishment of the University of Technology, Jamaica Press in February 2018 . Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Senator the Honourable Ruel Reid, CD, JP brought greetings. In congratulating UTech, Jamaica on reaching its diamond anniversary, Minister Reid paid tribute to “the work and memory of those who presided over the metamorphosis from the JIT to CAST, and now UTech.” He charged faculty, staff and students “continue to build on a wonderful global brand, preserve our rich legacy and carve a brilliant future of great results.” Cont’d from page 1... 60 th Anniversary Celebrations Launched Senator the Hon. Ruel Reid, CD, Minister of Education, Youth and Information. January - February 2018 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica 3 The UTech, Jamaica Choir delivering a stirring rendition of the song “Ain’t Got Time to Die” conducted by Choir Director, Mr. Hugh Douse. Special guest band, the Tivoli Marching Band along with uniformed groups from the UTech, Jamaica community kicked of the 60th Anniversary celebrations with a road march which began at the front field and culminated at the Shared Facilities Building. An appreciative audience watch the UTech, Jamaica Dance and Theatre Art Elective Group perform the piece “Knights” written by Drama tutor, Ms. Gracia Thompson. Scenes from the 60 th Anniversary Launch