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
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