Volume 4, Issues 2 May –August 2021 University of Technology, Jamaica Sixty undergraduate high achievers were presented the University of Technology, Jamaica 60th Anniversary Scholarship by Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President on May 14, 2021 at the University’s Papine Campus. The scholarship, valued at $100,000.00 each, were awarded to the most outstanding students of the University’s three colleges and five faculties who attained the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) scores of above 3.5 in the Academic Year 2019/2020.The scholarship was established in 2018 as part of activities in commemoration of the University’s 60th Anniversary and is one of the means through which the University recognizes and encourages student academic excellence. Congratulating the awardees, Professor Gyles, noted that it was important to commend and celebrate our students on their exceptional performance, though the University was not able to host a formal ceremony, owing to restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed gratitude to members of academic staff for guiding the students and for their continued dedication to advancing teaching and learning at the University. Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, in adding his commendations to the high achievers, noted that the GPA scores for this year’s presentation had increased by 1.5% over the last academic year, indicating a marked improvement in academic performance. Faculty of Engineering and Computing high achiever, 3rd Year student, Sabrina Powell, who was one of two students with the highest a GPA of 3.95, speaking on behalf of the scholarship awardees, thanked the University’s lecturers and administrative staff for their continued support and mentorship and expressed gratitude to the Acting President and to the Deans for the recognition of students’ efforts and hard work. Team LifeCash emerged winners of the 2021 Sagicor Innovation Challenge following an exciting final pitch of the Sagicor Innovation Challenge competition held June 8, 2021 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Kingston and streamed live via social media. From an initial 13 teams which entered the second staging of the Challenge, teams Patty Shop, Young Innovators, JamDev, Kismet and LifeCash were given the chance to make five-minute pitches of their business models, revenue streams and prototypes, followed by a Q&A session with judges. 60th Anniversary Scholarship Awarded to Sixty High Achievers Students Shine at Sagicor Innovation Challenge 2021 Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, presents the University’s 60th Anniversary Scholarship cheque of $100,000 to Sabrina Powell, 3rd Year Faculty of Engineering and Computing student, who achieved a GPA of 3.95 for the Academic Year 2019/2020. Cont’d on page 4 Team LifeCash members (l-r) Chadan Huggup, Reinaldo Pino, Razzio Hall and Karla Capote Bustamante, final year students, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT) enthusiastically display their trophies and cheque for $500,000 following their win at the Sagicor Innovation Challenge held on June 8, 2021 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel for their development of the LifeCash app, a contactless, cashless payment solution designed to offer greater security and convenience than other payment methods.
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 MAY - AUG 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 Volume 4, Issue 2 8th Annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture Examines Leadership During Crisis Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Signing of Agreement for Healthcare Professional Leadership Training Course 18 6 Engineering Students intern at New Fortress Energy 8 Student Voices 11
3 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica 3 60th Anniversary Scholarship Awardees: Congratulations to 60th Anniversary Awardees Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President presents the 60th Anniversary Scholarship cheques of $100,000 each, to outstanding students. Pictured from left, (top row) Howard Jackson (GPA 3.83, Faculty of The Built Environment), Chantelle Britton (GPA 3.89, Faculty of Science and Sport), Sarah Nelson (GPA 3.86, College of Health Sciences); (second row) Nia Scott (GPA 3.95, faculty of Engineering and Computing), Saharah Henry (GPA 3.85, College of Business and Management) and Segan Stubbs (GPA 3.93, Joint College of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences). Faculty of The Built Environment Howard Jackson GPA 3.83 Diane Sooklal GPA 3.82 Sashanya Livingston GPA 3.81 Bonita Bart GPA 3.78 Paula Bennett GPA 3.76 Enato Pemberton GPA 3.74 Shanece Powell GPA 3.72 Abigale Brown GPA 3.72 Faculty of Science and Sport Chantelle Britton GPA 3.89 Keresh Hall GPA 3.86 Tevelle Dinham GPA 3.83 Jeavphare Ricketts GPA 3.83 Neethu Manianghattu GPA 3.78 Tobi-Ann Bryan GPA 3.78 Tamekia Meeks GPA 3.73 Jada Allen GPA 3.73 College of Health Sciences Sarah Nelson GPA 3.86 Kara Bromfield GPA 3.85 Trisha Goodlitt GPA 3.83 Jovanne Brown GPA 3.81 Crystal Cooke GPA 3.80 Azaria Wray GPA 3.76 Tashana Hutchinson GPA 3.71 Danessia Williams-Mellis GPA 3.66 Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Suen Chang GPA 3.76 Kheona Martin GPA 3.69 Dannielle Mullings GPA 3.66 Breanna Lewin GPA 3.66 Shalimar Blair GPA 3.66 Stephen Fong GPA 3.61 Heidi Campbell GPA 3.62 Kemoya Brown GPA 3.57 Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences Segan Stubbs GPA 3.93 Tiechia Watson GPA 3.90 Melissa Hall GPA 3.80 Tashian Downer GPA 3.88 Gabrielle Douglas GPA 3.88 Enobong Umoh GPA 3.88 Abbie_Ann Clarke GPA 3.79 Stefanio Lindo GPA 3.78 Faculty of Engineering and Computing Nia Scott GPA 3.95 Sabrina Powell GPA 3.95 Kayla Silvera GPA 3.90 Shinell Bartley GPA 3.88 Davia Henningham GPA 3.88 Shinell-Lee Bartley GPA 3.85 Garcian Mairs GPA 3.85 Neshkafay Johnson GPA 3.83 College of Business and Management Saharah Henry GPA 3.85 Duwaina Dixon GPA 3.83 Nastassia Smith GPA 3.82 Julisa Jackson GPA 3.82 Lenord Hall GPA 3.80 Renice Layne GPA 3.80 Judy-Kay Duffus GPA 3.79 Jadia McDonald GPA 3.78 Faculty of Law Annay Wheatle GPA 3.94 Julian Walters GPA 3.93 Natalie McKenzie GPA 3.90 Shadae Prendergast GPA 3.78
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 4 In his remarks via Zoom, Mr. Christopher Zacca, President and CEO, Sagicor Group, expressed that it was a “no-brainer” to partner with UTech, Jamaica for the Innovation Challenge, as the University has been a hub for innovation and technology advancement. He also expressed gratitude to stakeholders at the University and at Sagicor for their efforts in ensuring the continued vitality of the competition. Dr. Andrew Isaacs, Vice Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), in his remarks, highlighted the importance of the partnership between the Sagicor Group and the University, noting that “the vehicle of the Innovation Challenge Cont’d from page 1...Sagicor Innovation Challenge Celebrating with the winning team, from left are Mr. David White, Lecturer, SCIT, Dr. Lisa Facey-Shaw, Senior Lecturer, SCIT, team LifeCash members Karla Capote, Reinaldo Pino, Razzio Hall and Chadan Huggup and Sagicor’s, Mr. Mark Chisolm. 3rd Place: Mr. Mark Chisolm (left), Sagicor Group, presents team JamDev’s (l-r) Khadane Hood, Brandon Fong and Thorn Lewars, with their third place sympbolic cheque of $100,000.00 for their innovative creation, Workbite, an online community seeking to connect skilled workers with their potential clients. 2nd Place: Mr. Mark Chisolm (left), Executive Vice President, Individual Insurance, Sagicor Group, presents Young Innovators’ (from left) Patrick Clark and Michael Hibbert with their 2nd place cheque for $250,000.00. The team’s e-commerce solution Jamart, an online marketplace simplifies e-commerce for shoppers and sellers, by offering free and quick setup of online stores, payment flexibility and social media integration tools. has transported students who may be otherwise engaged to find new improved and reimagined solutions.” Judges from Sagicor Group were Mr. Christopher Zacca, President and CEO, Mr. Sean Newman, Chief Investment Officer, Mr. Mark Chisolm, Executive Vice President, Individual Insurance and Mr. Damion Hylton, Senior Vice President, Retail and Payments, with judges from UTech, Jamaica’s Faculty of Engineering and Computing Dr. Lisa Facey-Shaw, Senior Lecturer, and Mr. David White, Lecturer.
5 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The 8th Annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture which was broadcast live on TVJ on Sunday, May 16, 2021 offered practical and timely lessons on “Leadership During Crisis” with expertise imparted by guest speaker, Keith Duncan, CEO, JMMB Group; President, Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) and Chairman, Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC). Leveraging his vast experience in leadership, Duncan offered applicable advice on navigating crisis, such as the ongoing disruption brought about by the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. The annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture is hosted by the Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), University of Technology, Jamaica in partnership with the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation. The memorial lecture honors the vision, mission and passion of the late corporate leader and JMMB co-founder, Joan Duncan who championed wealth creation and empowerment for all Jamaicans. Her vision led to the creation of the Jamaica Money Market Brokers (JMMB Group), currently one of Jamaica’s leading financial institutions. The live broadcast format of this year’s lecture featured a conversation with Mr. Duncan moderated by Rochelle Cameron who is also Chief Project Coordinator, PSOJ. In studio, the opening and question and answer segments of the lecture were moderated by Mr. Hector Wheeler, Associate Vice President, Advancement, UTech, Jamaica. Participating in the discussion with the moderator, were Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica and Mrs. Patricia Duncan-Sutherland, Chair, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation. Mr. Duncan explored the role of transformational leadership at the corporate, industry and national levels and delved into the need for public/ private sector partnerships in creating a pathway for nation-building and the realization of a shared vision. He also offered perspectives on myriad opportunities presented in this crisis and the importance of digital transformation. He highlighted the importance of social partnerships and building an environment of trust as paramount to successful leadership and emphasized the need for leaders who cultivate an environment of trustworthiness. “You have to trust people, to be able to delegate and allow people to manifest their greatness. It begins with you trusting yourself, and trusting the people that you work with,” he noted, adding that people are at their most creative at problem-solving particularly in periods of crisis. In underscoring the need for social partnerships, and the importance of having competent and talented leaders who collaborate for the benefit of society, Mr. Duncan pointed to his involvement in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where as chair of the COVID Economic Recovery Taskforce, he assisted with assembling a team of highly skilled leaders, which included private and public sector organizations, to identify vulnerabilities in the economy and threats to employment. In this regard, Mr. Duncan noted that the health and wellness of employees in the workspace was a paramount consideration, even as efforts were made to safeguard economic viability, in seeking to balance lives and livelihood. Through the efforts of this team, which he used as an example of social partnerships and social engagement, contributions were made to the health sector and to the aging population, especially in underserved communities. In the riveting conversation, he further urged leaders to invest in human capital development, specifically in realizing digital transformation, and reallocating resources and investments into social transformation, targeting those with the greatest potential to make Jamaica a global leader, including athletes and musicians, and those from rural and inner city communities. Mr. Duncan Mr. Keith Duncan, President, PSOJ and CEO, JMMB Group in conversation with Ms. Rochelle Cameron, co-host of the 8th Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture, broadcast live on Television Jamaica (TVJ) on May, 16, 2021. 8th Annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture Examines Leadership During Crisis
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 6 Mrs. Patricia Sutherland, expressed pleasure in having the opportunity, through the lecture, to honour her mother, and “to every year, remind ourselves what she stood for, why we are so grateful for having had her in our lives.” Mrs. Sutherland pointed to her mother’s ethos of “adding value to the next person” in each of her interactions, noting that the lecture is a means through which the Joan Duncan Foundation hopes to achieve this, by facilitating enlightening and edifying discussions. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica, remarked on the successful relationship between UTech, Jamaica and the JMMB Group, which has been a fruitful, productive and longstanding one, with over eighteen years of successful collaboration. Prof. Gyles also highlighted that JDSEEL is instrumental in providing education and training for leaders who will be the drivers “for developing businesses that will help our economy to flourish.” Additionally, the Acting President noted that all students at UTech, Jamaica are exposed to entrepreneurship as a discipline, so that “whatever field they study in they are able to translate that knowledge into an entrepreneurial setting to allow for development of new enterprises.” The presentation also featured a short video documentary in tribute to Joan Duncan in which her children shared reflections on her life’s work and legacy. During the final segment of the broadcast, Mr. Duncan, Mrs. Duncan-Sutherland and Professor Gyles participated in a discussion featuring youth leaders. The panel comprised UTech, Jamaica students Roxanne Sadler and Shelice Anderson, Robyn Murray, President, UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union and Loya Haughton, 2014 Joan Duncan Scholar who all posed questions. The students reiterated the need for leaders to build environments of trust, where people are able to freely collaborate and form partnerships. Questions were also fielded from audience members joining from UTech, Jamaica and JMMB Group social media platforms. also spoke to the example of his mother, Joan Duncan, detailing valuable lessons learned from her, such as building and capitalizing on the resilience and creativity of Jamaicans to partner for social transformation. “We also have our vision of love, which anchors us,” he noted, adding that this vision underpins his leadership at and informs the culture of the JMMB Group. In offering additional advice, Mr. Duncan emphasized engagement “in an open and honest, and non-divisive way”, urging the breakdown of negativity and toxicity, with investment in a growth mindset. “You have to be a possibility thinker. You have to move out of the negative space, be open to ideas, do your research, and have a plan,” he advised. Mr. Hector Wheeler (left), Associate Vice President, Advancement and co-chair of the UTech, Jamaica/JMMB Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture in conversation with Mrs. Patricia Duncan-Sutherland, Chair, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation and Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, in studio, Television Jamaica during the broadcast of the memorial lecture on May 16, 2021. Mrs. Patricia Duncan-Sutherland, Chair, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica Cont’d from page 5...8th Annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture Leadership During Crisis
7 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Graduate students of the College of Business and Management (COBAM) Keresa Baimbridge, Stacy-Ann Ramsook and Monique Lawrence of the team “Leading Ladies” walked away with the top prize following the finals of the inaugural, virtual COBAM Caribbean Case Researchers Association (CCRA) Master’s Students Case Analysis Competition held May 13, 2021, via Zoom. “Leading Ladies” was one of three teams in the finals of the Competition who virtually presented their analysis of the case “iCreate: Creating a Digital Ecosystem”, written by Professor Paul Golding, Professor of Management Information Systems, COBAM and Dr. Lisa Facey-Shaw, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC). Professor Paul Golding, President, CCRA, in his introduction of the inaugural competition, noted that it was convened in an effort to sharpen the analytic prowess of graduate students by exposing them to cases that are specific to the Caribbean region, and are relatable to their own experiences. He also noted that the competition was geared towards fostering discussion and collaboration between tertiary institutions across the island. In speaking to the mandate of the CCRA, which was launched in 2018, Professor Golding indicated that the Association was endeavoring to develop case writers and researchers across the region, adding that “we as a body want to promote the development and use of Jamaican cases and cases from the region.” The graduate students were judged on several components of their presentation, which included their solutions to issues raised in the case, and their most important arguments, as well as their financial evaluation of the entity to determine its stability, solvency, liquidity and profitability, and a nonfinancial analysis to determine additional factors which would be important to achieving long-term strategic goals. Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, COBAM, Miss Sandra Johnson, Financial Controller, Insurance Company of the West Indies (ICWI), and Mr. Jeff Shay, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Executive Director for Academic Operations, Babson College, served as judges. Second place was awarded to A2M Consultancy with team members Andre Alexander, Anola Thompson and Michael Clarke and third place went to Kedar Martin, Ophelia Bramwell and Camilla Murray-Brown of the team Elite Consultancy. In endorsing the competition, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica noted that “CCRA is an important resource in contributing to the body of local and Caribbean business cases, and issues that are more relatable to our own Caribbean context and environment.” Professor Gyles lauded the CCRA for their work, highlighting that research shows greater student participation and enhanced learning outcomes in areas where case study teaching methods are employed. He also noted that the competition would assist students in developing the capacity to present complex ideas and concepts. Mr. Michael Goldman, President, North American Case Research Association (NACRA), a strategic partner of the CCRA, and judges Mr. Jeff Shay and Dr. Andrea Sutherland brought greetings, while the event was moderated by Mr. Michael Nicholson, Senior Lecturer, COBAM. The competition was sponsored by the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation. First prize winners were awarded USD$1,200.00, while second and third place winners received USD$800.00 and USD$500.00 respectively. COBAM Graduate Students Participate in Inaugural CCRA Master’s Students Case Analysis Competition Team “Leading Ladies” members (from left) Keresa Baimbridge, Stacy-Ann Ramsook and Monique Lawrence, graduate students of the College of Business and Management (COBAM) won the top prize of USD$1,200.00 at the CCRA Master’s Students Case Analysis Competition, held on May 13, 2021 via Zoom. Mr. Michael Goldman President, NACRA Mr. Jeff Shay Competition judge
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 8 UTech, Jamaica Students among 18 Engineering Interns at New Fortress Energy Natural gas provider New Fortress Energy (NFE) recently welcomed its first set of engineering interns at its liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities across the island. NFE’s Tertiary Engineering Internship Programme is opened to engineering students of the University of Technology, Jamaica, The University of the West Indies (Mona) and Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) and is aimed at assisting tertiary students to gain meaningful and practical experience in the LNG field to become more competitive and more marketable as they transition into the workforce. This year, 18 aspiring engineers from the three tertiary institutions were accepted to intern at one of NFE’s three LNG facilities — its combined heat and power plant (CHP) in Clarendon, the Old Harbour Power Plant and the Montego Bay LNG Plant in Freeport. Toni-Ann Gray, a second-year electrical and computer engineering student in the School of Engineering, UTech, Jamaica noted of her experience: “I’ve been having an amazing time so far at the Montego Bay Terminal. I’ve been working with the operators in the control room, out in the field at the loading bay where trucks are loaded with LNG, and on the jetty where the ship offloads the fuel. What’s also great is that I get to learn a lot about thermodynamics, LNG regasification process, and the various software that are used daily in operating and maintaining the plant. I am forever grateful for this opportunity to be among the first set of students to intern with NFE,” she said. UTech, Jamaica School of Engineering students Toni-Ann Gray (centre) and David Smith (right) review a document with Robert Rodney, Terminal Manager at the New Fortress Energy (NFE) Montego Bay LNG Power Plant. The students were among the first batch of nine students who are part of the company’s tertiary engineering internship programme launched in June 2021. (Loop News Photo) From left: University of Technology, Jamaica engineering students Tajay Daley, John-Daniel Martin, and Travis Patterson, along with O’Brian Simpson from the Caribbean Maritime University, at New Forest Energy’s Combined Heat and Power Plant in Clarendon. (Gleaner Photo)
9 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Twenty-two professionals from the public and private sectors were awarded the Professional Certificate in Organisation Development (PCOD) offered by corporate training and consultancy entity, the Caribbean Centre for Organisation Development Excellence (CARI-CODE) in partnership with the University of Technology, Jamaica. The certificates were presented at a virtual commencement ceremony on June 2, 2021 hosted by CARI-CODE. The professional certificate programme is offered to professionals who have a minimum of a first degree or at least one year’s supervisory level working experience. Guest speaker at the commencement ceremony, Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, UTech, Jamaica in his address urged the graduates to commit to serving as examples for others, as they seek to make a positive impact as Organisation Development practitioners. Dr. Johnson also congratulated CARI-CODE on being “cognizant of the importance of using cutting edge organisation development to address some of the issues and challenges faced by organisations in the 21st century”, including financial uncertainty, local and international competition, greater demand for accountability and transparency, and greater demand for excellence in customer service.” Dr. Johnson also praised the programme for its “competency-based approach”, which included hands-on, experiential training and assessment based on real world situations that were evidence-based and data-driven. He reiterated the University’s commitment to “support national goals to enable Jamaica to build the kind of competence required by the workforce to lead organisations in obtaining the highest level of transformation and productivity.” Dr. Johnson expressed gratitude to CARI-CODE, and to Dr. Jeanette Bartley-Bryan and her team, for “leadership in coordinating this collaborative effort.” Dr. Jeanette Bartley-Bryan, Associate Vice President, Open and Distance Learning, UTech, Jamaica, in explaining the nature of the University’s collaboration with CARI-CODE Limited, noted that this public-private partnership was formed through an academic agreement in 2019. The arrangement allows CARI-CODE to retain ownership of its course, with the academic quality assurance of its content and delivery standards approved by the University of Technology, Jamaica as partnering institution. Dr. Bartley-Bryan indicated that this type of “win-win” partnership with an independent training organization enables the expansion of the range of professional short courses available for increasing the knowledge, competencies and employment opportunities of the workforce and ultimately enhances national development. Dr. Bartley-Bryan also noted that credits earned from programmes such as the PCOD, are transferable to similar courses of study at UTech, Jamaica. Through this academic agreement, participants who have completed the Professional Certificate in Organisation Development are awarded joint certification by UTech, Jamaica and CARICODE. Mrs. Ilsa duVerney, CEO of CARI-CODE, in her welcome noted that the 12-week programme highlights “lean processes and innovation as a vital element for transformation and development”. She highlighted the importance of the organizational development certification in human capacity building, pointing out that, “in the new world of digitization and robotics, we develop people.” Adding that “innovation solutions emanate from human beings, and organisation development prepares our human resource to help design and to create those solutions.” Mrs. duVerney noted that emphasis is placed on “understanding context, and our history, which are critical to moving into the desired future we seek to create.” She also noted that the certification seeks to “future-proof” enterprises by enabling employees to develop agility, integrity and acuity (sensitivity, emotional intelligence and sharpness of vision), which will assist organisations to thrive during systemic changes to the business landscape. Valedictorian Mrs. Petra-Ann Williamson, who is Director, HR and Administrator, Cari-Med Ltd, responded on behalf of her cohort and praised Twenty-Two Professionals Receive UTech, Jamaica/CARI-CODE Organisation Development Professional Certification Dr. Haldane Johnson, Deputy President Dr. Jeanette Bartley-Bryan, Associate Vice President, Open and Distance Learning Mrs. Petra-Ann Williamson Valedictorian Mrs. Ilsa duVerney CEO of CARI-CODE
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 10 The Accommodation Unit in the Division of Student Services hosted its Halls of Residence Awards Ceremony virtually via Zoom on June 20, 2021 to recognize and celebrate the achievements of resident students in leadership, academics, team spirit and creativity. The ceremony was moderated by former Students’ Union representatives Shavae Scale, Resident Students Representative (Academic Year 2020/21) and Ricardo-Jovan Kildare, Vice President, Finance (Academic Year 2020/21) and brought together resident students and staff from the University’s residential halls: Dennis Johnson Hall, Donald Farquharson Hall, Amy Jacques Garvey Hall and Lome Halls (A, B, E, F). Mrs. Angela Isaacs-Brown, Accommodation Officer, in her welcome, praised the resident students for their adaptability, flexibility and responsiveness in the face of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that “we have learned to appreciate more the value of team and of each other”. She congratulated awardees for their creative thinking, innovative ideas, extraordinary commitment and intuitiveness that she noted transformed the halls into a “virtual operative space”, and contributed to solving the issues presented by living communally during the prevailing health crisis. She also had high commendation for “resilient, zealous and dynamic” resident managers, whom she noted were instrumental in conceptualizing and executing the virtual awards ceremony. Mr. Donald Dennis, HR Service Delivery and Rewards Manager, Heineken, was guest presenter. He emphasized the importance of resident students giving back, and making a positive contribution to their halls, to the University, and to society. During the virtual ceremony, Hall F was presented with the Virtual Citizenship Award for implementing and assisting other halls with use of digital technology. Kayla Morgan (Hall A), Aaliyah Williams (Hall B), Syjaye Binnings (Hall E), Ajay Richards (Hall F), Shanece Powell (Amy Jacques Garvey Hall), Samuel Smith (Dennis Johnson Hall), and Javain Davis (Donald Farquharson Hall) were awarded the High Online GPA Award, for their academic performance while using online platforms. The Fusion Spirit Award was presented to Jeanna Collins (Hall A), Brenda Anderson (Hall B), Jahmelia Stoddart (Hall E), Jeremy Anderson (Hall F), Brenda Johnson (Amy Jacques Garvey Hall), Samuel Smith (Dennis Johnson Hall), and Joel Richards (Donald Farquharson Hall). The award is presented to those resident students who embody courtesy and willingness to participate in and support inter-dorm activities, and who display a positive influence on their hall as well as others, and who cultivate an attitude of cohesion. The occasion was enriched by musical selections from students from the resident life community and other UTech, Jamaica participants. Resident Students Recognized at Virtual Halls of Residence Awards Ceremony Mrs Angela Isaacs-Brown, Accommodation Officer the PCOD programme as a “short but powerful educational experience,” which she sought out to better prepare herself for a restructuring exercise at her company. She highlighted practical aspects of the programme such as problem solving, ladder of inference, lean thinking, team dynamics and appreciative inquiry which she said were significant in enabling her to lead, assist and navigate change. Greetings were received from Ms. Brenda B. Jones, Co-Director of Global Leadership Development, a strategic partner of CARI-CODE, whose institution has endorsed the PCOD programme. Cont’d from page 9...Twenty-Two Professionals Receive UTech, Jamaica/CARI-CODE Organisation...
11 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica This scholarship means a lot to me because coming from a background which is not rich, and I’m the first person in my family to go to University, it really really means a lot. This award definitely means a lot. This is the second year I’ve been awarded this scholarship and it really gives me the drive to carry on, knowing that I am being recognized for putting in the work. To be awarded the 60th Anniversary Scholarship twice is definitely an accomplishment for me. UTech, Jamaica high achievers who were recipients of the 60th Anniversary Scholarship were asked “What does this scholarship mean to you and how will it help you advance your studies?” Read on for their responses. This award means that I’m finally being recognized for the hard work I’ve been putting in over the four years I’ve been here. I am very grateful and honoured that I received this award because I did not quite know how my second year would be financed. I am happy to be among those chosen for this scholarship. The hard work and sleepless nights paid off; all the sad days and the crying. I am very grateful to be here. STUDENT VOICES Nastassia Smith, 1st Year, Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, College of Business and Management Abbie-Ann Clarke, 4th Year, Bachelor of Science in Dental Laboratory Technology, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences Crystal Cooke 4th Year, Bachelor of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences Kheona Martin 1st Year, Bachelor of Education, TVET in Food Service, Production & Management, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 12 This award means a lot to me, because since I’ve been at UTech, Jamaica, I felt like I wasn’t being recognized for my work. I was surprised to receive the call about the scholarship because I know I didn’t apply for one, but I was selected because of my grades. That felt really great because I really worked hard, and I believe I deserve it. It has been very hard being at home with the pandemic and increased bills, so I’m very happy I will be able to help my family. This scholarship means a lot since it recognizes my efforts in school. It will help me financially to continue without the pressure of student loans, and the pressure on my parents. I greatly appreciate it. STUDENT VOICES Getting an award like this is very motivational. You try to work hard all the time; you don’t do it for the recognition but when you get it, it just keeps you going. And especially during COVID, it’s kind of harder to study and keep upbeat. Just knowing that my hard work has paid off, I feel very proud of myself. It means a lot knowing that all of the effort and hard work, the dedication that we have put in is actually reaping reward. It comes in a very needed time, especially with the pandemic. It’s really good and it is really appreciated. Neshkafay Johnson 3rd Year, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computing Natalie McKenzie 1st Year, Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law Jeavphare Ricketts 3rd Year, Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science, Faculty of Science and Sport Howard Jackson 3rd Year, Bachelor of Science in Land Surveying and Geographic Information Sciences, Faculty of The Built Environment
13 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The College of Business and Management (COBAM), through its School of Business Administration (SOBA), hosted the annual Production and Operations Management (POM) Virtual Conference on May 5, 2021 via Zoom under the theme Workplace Safety and Wellness: The Implications for Employee Productivity in Jamaica. Conference Chair, and Lecturer, COBAM, Mr. Courtney Lawes noted that the Conference aimed to explore the relevance, status and implications of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) legislation on the wellness and productivity in the Jamaican workplace. It also aimed to shed light on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on global productivity, with a particular focus on sport. The Conference formed part of activities to mark the College’s annual Celebration of Excellence. The keynote address at the opening ceremony was delivered by The Honourable Zavia Mayne, MP, Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security on behalf of The Hon. Karl Samuda, OJ, MP, Minister of Labour and Social Security. Professor Collin Gyles, Acting President, in his welcome, noted that the Conference was timely in its staging during the observance of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, commemorated on April 25, 2021. He affirmed the University’s unequivocal commitment to “sustainable health, safety and emergency preparedness at the workplace”, particularly with the changes to the workplace brought about by the pandemic, in response to which he noted that UTech, Jamaica has implemented numerous mitigation and safety measures. Professor Gyles also pointed to the University’s significant contribution to the education and training of Occupational Safety and Health professionals through the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Health and Safety programme offered in the School of Public Health and Health Technology, Joint Colleges of Oral Health, Medicine and Veterinary Sciences. “UTech, Jamaica is pleased to be making a significant contribution to the education and training of Occupational Health and Safety professionals who will be pivotal in the rollout and enforcement of the new legislation,” he noted. Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, COBAM, in welcoming participants to the conference also noted the timeliness of the forum. “The pandemic has forced us to acknowledge the many aspects of workplace safety and health,” she noted, indicating that a keen focus has now been placed on the psychological, emotional and social facets of worker health and safety that exist in the workplace.” Workplace Safety and Wellness: The Implications for Employee Productivity in Jamaica Speaking to efforts by the Government to increase productivity in the economy, Minister Mayne gave an update on the Occupational Safety and Health Bill. The Bill is slated to repeal previous legislation which is limited in scope and workplace coverage, and replace these with a modern, comprehensive legislation that “establishes modern safety and health standards for all workplaces.” Minister Mayne noted that the Bill is now being prepared for presentation to the Cabinet, and reported that the legislation will be passed in short order. The Minister’s address also underscored the need for a culture of health and safety in the Jamaican workplace. “We must all recognize our collective responsibility to strive towards eliminating occupational accidents, injuries and illnesses by ensuring that all workplaces are safe and healthy,” he said. Citing statistics from the International Labour Organization and multiple global research publications, Minister Mayne noted the correlation between the significant increase in productivity observed in workplaces that have adopted a culture of safe and healthy work practices. “Holistic wellbeing is a key factor in driving productivity; health and safety is a necessary condition for wellbeing in the place of work,” the Minister noted, indicating that wellness reduced absenteeism and sub-par job performance. Minister Mayne pointed to a few of the consequences of ignoring health and safety best practices, which he noted were, contrary to popular belief, costlier than ensuring safe work environments. These consequences included excessive overtime payments, incident-triggered training programmes, high employee turnover, loss of production time, workers’ compensation payments, repairs to damages, warranty costs and worker downtime due to illness or injury. Mr. Courtney Lawes Honourable Zavia Mayne, MP COBAM Hosts Virtual Conference on Workplace Safety, Wellness and Sport Productivity
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 14 The morning session of the Conference also included presentations from Mr. Marlon Mahon, Senior Director, Occupational Health and Safety, MOLSS, Ms. Mikhail-Ann Urquhart, Senior Director, Research and Measurement, Jamaica Productivity Centre and Dr. Vanessa White-Barrow, Head, School of Allied Health and Wellness. The panel discussion featured Senator Kavan Gayle, Member of Parliament, Mr. David Wan, President, Jamaica Employers Federation, Mrs. Helene Davis-Whyte, Head, Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions and Mr. Ed Wallace, Occupational Health and Safety Consultant, who discussed the benefits of occupational health and safety to both employers and employees and emphasized safety as an investment, with greater yields in productivity and profit. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sport Productivity in Jamaica The keynote speaker of the afternoon session, Dr. Carl Bruce, Chief Medical Officer, University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) in detailing the significant cost the pandemic has had on various industries in the country, specifically the health and sporting sector, noted that the wide availability of effective vaccines could mean that the disruption will soon be at an end. His presentation also included valuable information on the production, distribution, safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, and he advocated for public education programmes to sensitize public on vaccines and the need for exemptions to quarantines for fully vaccinated groups, including athletes. The afternoon session also included a panel discussion featuring sports industry experts; Mrs. Carole Beckford, President and CEO, The Business of Sports; Mr. Orville Byfield, Director of Sport, UTech, Jamaica, Mr. Michael Ricketts, President, Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Mr. Christopher Samuda, President, Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA), Mr. Ludlow Watt, Treasurer, Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) who discussed the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sport in Jamaica, and highlighted sportsmen and women as employees and employers who are grappling with the loss of capital and productivity, with the assistance of various international and local sporting associations and organizations. The Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS) hosted its 4th International Conference on Education and The Humanities virtually from June 1- 3, 2021, under the theme “Revisioning, Retooling and Repositioning: Building Capacity in Developing Economics”. The Faculty’s biennial flagship conference has contributed significantly to research and development in the areas of education, social and natural sciences, and engineering and computing over the past eight years. The Conference opened with a panel discussion titled “Pivoting education: Charting the way forward in the new normal”. Conference Chair, Dr. Nola Hill-Berry, Lecturer, COHS, noted that “the current dynamic brings challenges for us as academics, health practitioners, clients, and all other stakeholders,” as well as for policy makers who are required to “identify appropriate and effective means of protecting the integrity of sensitive (health) information.” In this context, she noted that several of the Conference’s presentations would “explore the vulnerable nature of health data and how we navigate this COVID-19 era.” Dr. Nicole Cameron, Lecturer, FELS, and Conference Chair, in her introduction, indicated that the pandemic has highlighted such issues as climate change, national security threats, deepening inequities and government corruption as dangers to the viability of regional states, which emphasizes the need for “evidence-based research and solutions in crafting public policy.” The panel discussion “Pivoting Education: Charting the way forward in the new normal” comprised Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Dr. Grace McLean, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MOEYI); Dr. Lorna Gow-Morrison, Principal, Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College; Dr. Harold McDermott, Vice Dean, FELS and Miss Robyn Murray, President, UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union, with moderator Professor Shermaine Barrett, Dean, FELS who posed thought-provoking questions to the panel on the opportunities and challenges inherent in the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Nicole Cameron Dr. Carl Bruce 4th International Conference on Education and The Humanities Cont’d from page 13...COBAM Hosts Virtual Conference on Workplace Safety, Wellness and Sport...
15 May - August 2021 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The College of Health Sciences (COHS) hosted the 2nd staging of the Health Information Management (HIM) Virtual Conference and Symposium on July 29, 2021, via Zoom. The Conference, themed “Developing Trends in Health Information Management: Navigating the COVID-19 Era” brought together experts in the health, ICT, legal and data management fields to share emerging developments in Health Information Management, and to provide unique perspectives on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conference Chair, Dr. Nola Hill-Berry, Lecturer, COHS, noted that “the current dynamic brings challenges for us as academics, health practitioners, clients, and all other stakeholders,” as well as for policy makers who are required to “identify appropriate and effective means of protecting the integrity of sensitive (health) information.” In this context, she noted that several of the Conference’s presentations would “explore the vulnerable nature of health data and how we navigate this COVID-19 era.” Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, in his greetings, highlighted that “the deliberations during this Conference will augur well in support of the Ministry of Health and Wellness’s execution of its National Health Information System and E-Health Strategy to improve health care services.” The Acting President also expressed that the Conference outcomes were in alignment with the University’s mission to “positively impact Jamaica, the wider Caribbean and 2nd Health Information Management Virtual Conference and Symposium Dr. Nola Hill-Berry Dr. McLean in her contribution, noted that the pandemic has “brought into sharp focus the imperatives of a wider use of Information Communication Technology (ICT)”, adding that with the strengthening of the education technology infrastructure, as well as training of teachers, the sector will adapt to the new normal. Professor Gyles and Dr. Gow-Morrison spoke of the financial difficulties their institutions faced as a result of COVID-19 and detailed several steps being taken to mitigate these difficulties, including reducing expenditure and pursuing outstanding debts. They also detailed the application of ICT innovations at their respective institutions aimed at the continued quality delivery of education to students. Speaking to research conducted in 2020 on digital student engagement, Dr. McDermott noted that the figures showed significant engagement at the pre-basic, primary and secondary levels in Jamaica, but pointed out, however, that the quality of engagement in teaching and learning continues to be significantly affected by lack of devices and internet connectivity. Concurring with this observation, Ms. Murray noted that students’ inability to access devices and reliable Internet connectivity are among the main challenges they face. The three-day conference featured forty-five presentations, and four workshops in which researchers, practitioners, educators and students from diverse disciplines shared their research, ideas and practical experiences on the emerging challenges and opportunities in education and humanities. Screenshot taken from the virtual conference Cont’d from page 14...4th International Conference on Education and The Humanities
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | May - August 2021 16 The Centre for the Arts (CFA), in association with RAWManagement Talent Agency, hosted a “Write Right for Screen” Screenwriting Webinar on May 27, 2021. Mr. Philip Clarke, Director, CFA, noted that the workshop was specifically aimed at students of the Drama and Theatre Arts elective and Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Technology (BACAT) film and videography programmes, to provide exposure to the screenwriting industry and assistance in writing and developing their own scripts for the screen. Main speaker, Filmmaker, Scriptwriter and Film Editor, Ms. Rachel Chin, presented on the rudiments of screenplay format, cinematic story, character development, and plot structure. Miss Chin noted the importance of keeping the audience in mind while writing, and considering how the story will unfold for the viewer. Ms. Nadean Rawlins, CEO of RAWManagement Talent Agency, in her remarks, noted that the long-term objective of the initiative was to enable screenwriters to develop their scripts, with the assistance of a script editor, to have them produced by the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS). The webinar was sponsored by the Jamaica Film and Television Association (JAFTA) and the Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI). Centre for the Arts Hosts “Write Right for Screen” Screenwriting Webinar Rachel Chen Cont’d from page 15...2nd Health Information Management Virtual Conference and Symposium elsewhere, through high quality learning opportunities for students, research and value added solutions to government, industry and communities.” Mr. Greg Louis-Austin, Acting Associate Vice President, Quality Assurance, conveyed welcome on behalf of Dr. Janet Campbell-Shelly, Dean, COHS, who had high praises for the conveners of the Conference. Dr. Campbell-Shelly’s message noted the timeliness of the event, highlighting that “with the new developments in online use and dissemination of information, the growing threat of cyber-attacks, new strategies and new technologies, privacy and security of patient information are now major priorities and areas requiring tremendous focus.” Dr. Vanessa White-Barrow, Head, School of Allied Health and Wellness, COHS echoed similar sentiments, noting that the Conference presents a unique opportunity for local and international Health Information Management practitioners and stakeholders to share knowledge and experiences presented by the pandemic. Keynote Speaker at the opening ceremony, Mr. David Dobson, Chief Technical Director, Ministry of Tourism in his presentation detailed several of the advancements in Health Information Management which were accelerated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged and commended the widespread application of ICT innovations in the field, including electronic health record storage, virtual health conferencing, mobile access to health records and the application of data analytics to patient data. Mr. Dobson underscored however, the importance of understanding and fortifying traditional means of health data storage, such as paper-based records. The Conference discussions further comprised two presentations on the topics Women in Healthcare Leadership and The National Identification System (NIDS) and Health Data Vulnerability and a symposium focusing on health data vulnerability with experts in the fields of ICT, academia, law, and medicine. Other conference presenters were Dr. Stephanie Corinthian-Reid, Programme Director, COHS and Mr. Charlton McFarlane, Chief Executive Officer, Registrar General’s Department who made presentations on Women in Healthcare Leadership in the COVID-19 Era and Health Data Vulnerability. Conference’s Symposium Speakers were Professor Sean Thorpe, Head, School of Computing and Information Technology, Mr. Greg-Louis Austin, Acting Associate Vice President, Quality Assurance, Dr. Prathiba Mahanamahewa, Dean, Faculty of Law, Mrs. Janet Powell, Director of Patient Affairs, University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), and Dr. Omar Wellington, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, UHWI. Mr. David Dobson Mr. Greg-Louis Austin
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