Vol. 5, Issue 1 April – June 2022 University of Technology, Jamaica University of Technology, Jamaica students of the Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), Shasantay Jennings and Shantay Siddo, members of team Medija Traditions, who emerged winners of the 2022 National Business Model Competition (NBMC) were awarded their prizes, trophies and plaques at an awards ceremony hosted by NBMC organisers Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) and the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) on May 6, 2022 at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. Team Medija Traditions impressed the judges with their use of the business model canvas to present their natural spray-on bandage product that promises to soothe pain, seal and assist with healing minor wounds, emerging winners from among the 12 final teams drawn from tertiary institutions UTech, Jamaica, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE), Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC). Medija Traditions was presented with the winning trophy and first place cash prize of $2 million. The team also earned for their University, the prize of $300,000 which was awarded to the winning university. UTech, Jamaica Student Team - Medija Traditions Wins National Business Model Competition Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Shantay Siddo (3rd left) and Shasantay Jennings (3rd right) of the UTech, Jamaica student team, Medija Traditions are all smiles as they accept their symbolic winning cheque of $2M and first prize trophy for winning the National Business Model Competition (NBMC) 2022, being presented by representatives of the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) and Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) at the NBMC Awards Ceremony on Friday, May 6, 2022 at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. From left are Mr. Anthony Shaw, Managing Director, DBJ, Mrs. Imega Breese McNab, Executive Director, PSOJ, Ms. Lisa D’Oyen, Executive Director, Musson Foundation and Mr. Milverton Reynolds, outgoing Managing Director, DBJ. UTech, Jamaica team NBMC finalists and officers of the University pose for a group photograph with the Medija Traditions following the presentation of their prizes on May 6, 2022 at the NBMC Awards Ceremony. From left are Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, Ashley Lawrence (Team Tutoring One-On-One), Ms. Novelette Cooke, Lecturer, JDSEEL, Twae-Jordon Rose (Team Tutoring One-On-One), Shantay Siddo (Medija Traditions), Mr. Frederick Mills, Lecturer, JDSEEL, Shasantay Jennings (Medija Traditions), Dr. Carol Nathan, Associate Professor, FELS, Kashlon Palmer (PayaLynk) and Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, College of Business and Management.
Editorial Team Executive Editor Hector Wheeler Editor/Writer Michelle Beckford Editorial Assistant/Writer Jolyn Gayle Photography IMS, Calvin McKain Library Corporate Communications Unit Design & Layout Ian Beckford APR - JUN 2022 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 Ext: 2299/2888 Email: corporatecomm@utech.edu.jm/mbeckford@utech.edu.jm Website: www.utechjamaica.edu.jm Vol. 5, Issue 1 60th Anniversary Scholarship presented to Top Sixty High Achievers Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica UTech, Jamaica Welcomes Ambassador of France to Jamaica, for Special Visit 21 6 Research Briefs 19 Student Voices 12
3 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The Honourable Audley Shaw (centre), Minister of Transport and Mining joins Professor Colin Gyles (left), Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica, and Professor Clive Roberts, Head, School of Engineering, University of Birmingham, as they display copies of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two Universities to collaborate on research, training and technology innovation in support of efforts to rehabilitate and revitalise the railway industry in Jamaica. The MoU was signed at the opening ceremony of a two-day Symposium on Railway Engineering hosted by both Universities at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus April 13 - 14, 2022. University of Technology, Jamaica in collaboration with University of Birmingham, UK, hosted a symposium on Railway Engineering, on April 13 -14, 2022 at the University’s Papine Campus, bringing together experts in the engineering field to discuss the future of rail in Jamaica, and to explore opportunities for collaboration in research, training and capacity building in the railway industry. Local, regional and international experts, and representatives of the Jamaican Government, explored topics including technological developments and future railway capabilities, the national transportation network agenda, future solutions for Jamaican railways and the institutional approach to research, training and development of industry engineering talent in Jamaica. The Universities also formalised their collaboration on research, training and innovation in support of revitalising the Jamaican railway industry through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Symposium’s opening ceremony. The Honourable Audley Shaw, Minister of Transport and Mining, pointing to the Government’s plan for a tourism line from Montego Bay to the Appleton Estate, the Honourable Minister gave his commitment that the revitalisation of the railroad will be actualised. He congratulated the University of Technology, Jamaica for being a catalyst in the revitalisation of rail, and praised the Institution’s collaboration with the University of Birmingham in support of this endeavour. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, in his welcome at the opening ceremony, noted that the symposium marks “a significant moment in Jamaica’s national development with respect to advancement in modern railway engineering technology and progress in expansion of transportation.” He underscored that the University of Technology, Jamaica is proud to be a part of the partnership that will “positively impact capacity building in support of research, knowledge transfer and competency in modern railway technology.” Professor Gyles, in expressing gratitude to partners University of Birmingham, outlined that the “win-win” partnership would redound to the benefit of students by providing opportunities for hands-on and practical training in railway and rail innovation, and as a Cont’d on page 4 UTech, Jamaica and University of Birmingham Sign MoU to Collaborate on Jamaican Railway Rehabilitation
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 4 means of “giving back through volunteer service in support of community and heritage related rail rehabilitation efforts.” Professor Clive Roberts, Head, School of Engineering, University of Birmingham, in a presentation titled What Has the Railway Ever Done for Us?, outlined the significant benefits of establishing and sustaining the rail industry. Among these benefits are the railway’s ability to provide a low carbon means of travel, create skilled jobs, reduce the number of cars and trucks on the road, regenerate city areas, connect rural communities, and increase land value and desirability. Dr. Kevin Brown, Chair, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Partnership Working Group, in his presentation, outlined the Social Intervention Community Rail Project, which will be the initial beneficiary of research, technical knowledge and expertise coming out of the collaboration between UTech, Jamaica and University of Birmingham. The project is being executed by steering committee Friends of the Jamaica National Railway, led by Mr. Neil Howard, a retired British railwayman and Dr. Brown. Mr. Oneil Josephs, Head, School of Engineering, UTech, Jamaica noted that the University has made significant contribution in research in the areas of Civil, Industrial, Chemical, Electrical and Mechanical engineering, all of which form the basis of the School of Engineering’s Bachelor of Engineering courses of study. He underscored the importance of quality engineering education, noting that “it has been established that engineering, manufacturing, the value-added industry is at the heart of development and economic growth.” He expressed further that “there is a broad need to provide capacity strengthening in terms of knowledge and technology transfer, but also in the provision of hardware and software,” a requirement that the University has moved to fulfil with the “innovative partnership” between itself, Government agencies and the University of Birmingham. Mr. Paulton Gordon, Director, Community Service and Development, noted that the Department of Community Service and Development, will further integrate other Colleges and Faculties in efforts to create a platform for students to hone their skills, as the various partners coalesce around the long overdue efforts to revive the rail industry. The Social Intervention Community Rail Project, which will be executed through assistance from volunteers, will be open to University students who wish to complete the Community Service requirements of their courses of study. Cont’d from page 3...UTech, Jamaica and University of Birmingham Sign MoU to Collaborate (L-r) Senator the Honourable Leslie Campbell, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Dr. Kevin Brown, Chair, Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Partnership Working Group, Mr. Paulton Gordon, Director, Community Service and Development, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, The Honourable Audley Shaw, Minister of Transport and Mining, Professor Clive Roberts, Head, School of Engineering, University of Birmingham, Mr. Oneil Josephs, Head, School of Engineering, UTech, Jamaica, Dr. Marcelo Blumenfeld, Associate Professor of Transport Systems, University of Birmingham and Dr. Robin Coombes, Director, Heritage Rail Knowledge Network, and Research Fellow, University of Birmingham on April 13, 2022 at the Symposium on Railway Engineering at the UTech, Ja. Papine Campus.
5 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica University of Technology, Jamaica on April 16, 2022 welcomed the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay as part of the iconic places on the island at which the Baton made a stop en route to its destination to this year’s staging of the Commonwealth Games to be held in Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK) scheduled for July 28 to August 8, 2022. The Baton arrived in Jamaica on April 15, as part of its journey through 72 Commonwealth nations and territories, prior to the official start of the Games. Jamaica is the 51st stop, since the relay started on 7 October 2021, with Her Majesty the Queen placing her Message to the Commonwealth into the Baton. It arrived in Jamaica from the Cayman Islands and will next head to Trinidad and Tobago after its three-day stop in Jamaica. The arrival of the Baton at UTech, Jamaica’s Papine Campus coincided with the University’s signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on April 13, 2022 with the University of Birmingham. The University of Birmingham is an official partner of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and the Official Global University Partner of the Queen’s Baton Relay. At UTech, Jamaica, the Baton was received by Pro-Chancellor Mr Richard Powell who is also an alumnus of the University of Birmingham. The baton was relayed to him by UTech, Jamaica and University of Birmingham alumna Ms. Larissa McBean. The alumna, who was invited to be a Baton bearer, was chosen as the ideal candidate owing in part to her research areas including sports tourism as a vehicle to socio-economic development and alignment of tourism investment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Jamaica. UTech, Jamaica Welcomes 16th Official Queen’s Baton Mr Richard Powell, Pro-Chancellor, University of Technology, Jamaica receives the Queen’s Baton from baton bearer Ms Larissa McBean, alumna of both the University of Technology, Jamaica and the University of Birmingham, UK. The Baton was presented at a ceremony at UTech, Jamaica’s Papine Campus on April 16, 2022. Dr. Kamilah Hylton (forefront) Dean, Faculty of Science and Sport, UTech, Jamaica joins Mr. Paulton Gordon, Director, Department of Community Service and Development, UTech, Jamaica along with student athletes from The UWI (Mona) and UTech, Jamaica en route to The Queen’s Baton presentation ceremony, Shared Facilities Building at UTech, Jamaica’s Papine Campus on Saturday, April 16, 2022.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 6 The University of Technology, Jamaica 60th Anniversary Scholarship was presented to the top sixty undergraduate high academic achievers by Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, on May 12, 2022 at a presentation ceremony the Papine Campus. The scholarship, valued at $100,000.00 each, was 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 2020/2021. The scholarship, established in 2018 as part of activities in commemoration of the University’s 60th Anniversary, forms part of the University’s thrust to recognize and encourage student academic excellence. Congratulating student awardees, Professor Gyles noted that the University is “pleased to continue the tradition of honouring the achievement of academic excellence among our students,” and extended high commendation to the high achievers for maintaining their impressive academic standards, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years. He urged the awardees to continue to “walk the path of excellence and professionalism” on their academic and life’s journey, adding that they are considered “lifelong ambassadors of University of Technology, Jamaica.” Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, who moderated the ceremony, added his commendations to the high academic performers, noting that several awardees were receiving the scholarship for the second time. Dr. Johnson also pointed out that last year’s average Grade Point Average (GPA) was 3.796, while this year’s average GPA is 4.087. He explained that this increase was due in part to the grading system which has been modified, whereby a grade of A+ (90% and above) now carries a weighting of 4.3. The awardees were presented by Deans or by their representatives from the respective Colleges and Faculties. In an inspiring response on behalf of her fellow awardees, Faculty of Engineering and Computing high achiever, 4th Year student, Ruthanne McClymont noted that “hard work, dedication, determination, all-nighters, coffee and a drive to do more than just pass, has placed us in this prestigious position.” She encouraged her fellow awardees to “strive only for the best,” knowing that their reward will be certain. UTech, Jamaica 60th Anniversary Scholarship Presented to Top Sixty High Achievers Professor Colin Gyles (centre), Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica, poses for a group photograph with UTech, Jamaica student high achievers who received the 60th Anniversary Scholarship on May 12, 2022 during a special presentation ceremony held at Lecture Theatre 50, Shared Facilities Building, University of Technology, Jamaica Papine Campus. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, presents the University’s 60th Anniversary Scholarship cheques to outstanding students from left Ruthanne McClymont (GPA 4.30, Faculty of Engineering and Computing) and Kawaine Anderson (GPA 4.18), College of Business and Management).
7 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica All seventeen (17) University of Technology, Jamaica student applicants drawn from the College of Business and Management (COBAM) were successful in their selection for the 2022-2023 Canadian Short-term Exchange Scholarship Program (SEP) through the Emerging Leaders in the Americas (ELAP) Program, which is fully funded by the Government of Canada. The students who have been awarded the ELAP scholarship will be hosted at Canadian post-secondary institutions with which UTech, Jamaica has forged institutional partnerships. Extending hearty congratulations to the students, Acting President, Professor Colin Gyles noted that “this is the highest number of student ELAP Scholarship awards received in any one year by UTech, Jamaica during our participation in the Canadian SEP Program over the past eleven (11) years.” Student awardees and the institutions at which they will be hosted by post-secondary institutional partners in Canada, are as follows: COBAM Students Awarded Canadian ELAP Scholarship Brandon University Roshauna Anderson – SOBA Lenord Hall - SOBA Shanyo Ferguson - SOBA Courtnie Coley - SOBA Trina Bish - SOBA Andre Witter - SOBA Janine Campbell – JDSEEL University of Prince Edward Island Cornel Mitchell - SOBA Gabrielle Simpson - SOBA O’Tavia Porter - SOBA Tanesia Pike - SOBA Thalia Thomas - SOBA Trishawna Treasure - SOBA Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning Tiarondi Tamara Henry – SHTM Mishka Clarke – SHTM Kawaine Anderson - SHTM Crystal Wright - SHTM UTech, JA. Partners with Emory University on Graduate Students Public Health Research Project Officers of University of Technology, Jamaica join Master of Public Health (MPH) students from UTech, Jamaica and Emory College for a group photo at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus on Wednesday, June 15, 2022. From left are Dr. Mark Edwards, Dean, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences, Dr. Marcia ThelwellReid, Associate Professor and Graduate Studies Coordinator, School of Public Health and Health Technology, Ilse Campos (Emory College), Aditi Wamorkar (Emory College), Kimberley Farquharson Waugh (UTech, Jamaica), Shannon Stephens (Emory College), Alyssa Milton (Emory College), Denise Catbay (Emory College) and Dr. Kevin Harvey, Head, School of Public Health and Health Technology, Joint Colleges. University of Technology, Jamaica, through its School of Public Health and Health Technology (SPHHT), has partnered with Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, through its Rollins School of Public Health, to complete a research project titled “COVID-19 Changes in Sexual Reproductive and HIV/AIDS Care in Jamaican Health Facilities”, which is funded by a grant from Emory University. Through this agreement, Master of Public Health students Ilse Campos, Alyssa Milton, Shannon Stephens, Denise Catbay, and Aditi Wamorkar, joined UTech, Jamaica Master of Public Health student Kimberley Farquharson Waugh, to undertake the research project, which is slated to be completed by the end of 2022. Dr. Mark Edwards, Dean, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences, welcoming the partnership, noted that “we are extremely happy for this international collaboration,” adding that this international linkage will be meaningful going forward for the programme, for local students and for University of Technology, Jamaica. Dr. Kevin Harvey, Head, School of Public Health and Health Technology, UTech, Jamaica, who was awarded the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship in Global Health and Control of HIV from Emory University in 2012, noted that this collaboration is the first step in establishing a mutually beneficial partnership with Emory University for Master of Public Health students of both universities.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 8 FENC Students Receive Productivity Innovation Award 2022 Collaboration with USF for ICT Lecture and Workshop (l-R) Mr. Hugh Cargill , Lecturer, School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC) Robin-Gayle Robinson- Industrial Engineering Student, Mrs Tamar Nelson- Chief Technical Director, Jamaica Productivity Centre and Andre Humber- Industrial Engineering Student at the Productivity Innovation Award 2022 ceremony on June 20, 2022. Professor Sean Thorpe, Head, School of Computing and Information and Technology (SCIT), who chaired the opening ceremony welcomes the capacity audience of ICT industry professionals, educators and students to the Inaugural Universal Service Fund (USF) Information Communication Technology (ICT) Lecture and Workshop hosted jointly with University of Technology, Jamaica on May 17, 2022 at the Shared Facilities Building, Papine Campus. A team from the Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), UTech, Jamaica received the 2022 Productivity Innovation Award for their project on the development of a Biodegradable Single Use Mask using Natural Fibers. The announcement was made during the Annual Productivity Forum and Awards Ceremony put on by Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC), an arm of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security on June 20, 2022. The team comprised of four industrial engineering students: Christoph Thompson, Robin-Gayle Robinson, Curtley McFarlane, Andre Humber and their supervisor, Mr. Hugh Cargil, School of Engineering. The project sought to address a global problem referred to by Science Insider as a growing mountain of waste and a toxic bomb where the world is throwing away three million non-biodegradable face masks every minute. The students were able to design a biodegradable single-use mask and outline the process by which they can be produced locally. They then went on to test the process stability and capability using Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques and then optimized the filtration properties of the mask through a full factorial Design of Experiment (DOE). Students received individual trophies and a cash prize of $50,000 each. The Universal Service Fund (USF) collaborated with University of Technology, Jamaica through the School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT), for the hosting of its Inaugural Information Communication Technology (ICT) Lecture and Workshop held on May 17, 2022 at the University’s Shared Facilities Building, Papine Campus. Themed “Broadening Access through the Use of Technology,” the occasion formed part of a series of events celebrating the USF’s 17th anniversary and brought together ICT professionals and experts in the field Cont’d on page 9
9 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica to explore issues related to Internet access and its impact on society. The day’s events included a panel discussion, workshop and exhibition booths showcasing the latest in ICT trends and innovations. At the opening ceremony greetings and remarks were received from the Honourable Daryl Vaz, Minister of Science, Energy and Technology, Honourable Fayval Williams, Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Dr. Andrew Wheatley, former Minister of Science, Energy and Technology and Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica. In his greetings, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica indicated that the University and the Universal Service Fund “have enjoyed a long-term productive partnership under the shared mission of bridging the information gap in our country and facilitating access to ICT technologies and knowledge sharing.” He highlighted a $20M grant received by the University in 2015 from the USF, to support the expansion of broadband Internet access on the Papine and Western campuses, which he noted, “enabled faster Internet connectivity and an expansion in the coverage of the campus wireless network Internet access points.” The Future of Broadband Internet and Community Level Access was the topic of the panel discussion moderated by Professor Sean Thorpe, Head, School of Computing and Information Technology, UTech, Jamaica, and featured experts in academia, local telecommunications providers and representatives from the public and private sector. Participating in the discussion via Zoom and in-person were Mr. Anthonio Anderson, Vice President and Chief Information and Technology Officer, UTech, Jamaica; Mr. Justin Morin, Chairman, Universal Service Fund; Dr. Maria MyersHamilton, Managing Director, Spectrum Management Authority; Dr. Gunjan Mansingh, Senior Lecturer, Department Head, School of Computing, The University of the West Indies; Mr. Chris Dehring, Chief Executive Officer, Ready Communications Limited; Mr. Ronald Donaldson, Major Account Manager, Fortinet Jamaica; Mr. Jabbor Kayumov, Chief Executive Officer, Digicel Jamaica; Mr. Charles Douglas, Senior Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Flow Jamaica; Mr. Errol Roberts, Distinguished Architect, CISCO; and Mr. Pablo Perez, Head of Market Insights, and Mr. Larkland Morley, Engineering Manager, Google. The panelists, who agreed on the need to reduce the digital divide and prepare the country for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, expressed that there is work to be done to enable communities, especially those that are underserved and in rural areas to have reliable, and affordable, access to the Internet. A Broadband-Spectrum Management Workshop looking at “Initiatives in Bridging Broadband Access” and projects aimed at satisfying the Universal Service Obligations, closed out the final segment of the day’s activities. Participating in the workshop were Mr. Trevor Forrest, Founder, 876 Technology Solutions; Mr. Kwan Wilson, Director of Projects, Universal Service Fund; Mr. Mike Saunderson, Operations Manager, National Works Agency and Mr. Lyndel McDonald, Manager of Telecommunications, Spectrum Management Authority. Panellists, from left to right, Dr. Maria Myers-Hamilton, Managing Director, Spectrum Management Authority, Mr. Anthonio Anderson, Vice President and Chief Information and Technology Officer, UTech, Jamaica, Mr. Chris Dehring, Chief Executive Officer, Ready Communications Limited, Mr. Charles Douglas, Senior Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Flow Jamaica, Mr. Jabbor Kayumov, Chief Executive Officer, Digicel Jamaica and Mr. Justin Morin, Chairman, Universal Service Fund in discussion. Cont’d from page 8...Collaboration with USF for ICT Lecture and Workshop
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 10 University of Technology, Jamaica, through its Prior LearningAssessment (PLA) Unit, Office of Teaching and Learning, in collaboration with UTech Academy, in exploring avenues to offer diverse routes of matriculation to higher education, hosted a virtual symposium on March 31, 2022 under the theme “Leveraging Flexible Learning Pathways: The role of Micro-credentials”. The symposium aimed at highlighting microcredentials as a flexible pathway for prospective students to gain entry into the University’s undergraduate and graduate degree programmes, and to become competent and qualified in areas outside of the traditional programmes. Welcoming participants, Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, noted that the symposium is timely “given the new realities of the higher education and employment landscape in Jamaica”, adding that the objectives align well with the University’s fivestar strategy of service, teaching and learning, access, research and sustainability. Perspectives on the theme were shared by speakers: Dr. Jeanette BartleyBryan, Associate Vice President, Open and Distance Learning, UTech, Jamaica; Dr. Dameon Black, Executive Director, Jamaica Tertiary Education Commission (J-TEC); Dr. Cebert Adamson, Vice President, Students, International and Alumni, Mohawk College, Canada and Ms. Christine Carpenter, Vice President Membership Services, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), USA. In her introduction, moderator, Mrs. Sandy Lawrence, Prior Learning Assessment Coordinator, noted that non-traditional means of matriculation are becoming more c o m m o n p l a c e , and underscored the importance of “maximizing the potential for prior learning assessment to increase student intake.” She indicated that the symposium was geared towards exploring local and international best practices on micro-credentials and their potential to “reach people where they are” in an effort to increase intake into undersubscribed and short courses. Dr. Jeanette Bartley-Bryan, in her presentation ‘The UTech Academy: Formalising a system of Micro-credentials’ outlined that despite the term micro-credential being fairly new, the framework and policy guidelines to enable flexible matriculation have been established, through collaborations across the University. Dr. BartleyBryan shared that the formalization of micro-credentials will mean an increased intake of students. Dr. Dameon Black, Executive Director, Jamaica Tertiary Education Commission (J-TEC) offered his input through a presentation titled ‘J-TECH’s role in developing a Micro-credentials framework’ from the perspective of a regulatory and supervisory body. He noted “employers are driving educators, to think differently”, and expounded on the national need for work-force certification and validation of informal learning “so that stakeholders can appreciate employee’s value and the credibility of their credentials”. Dr. Cebert Adamson, alumnus of the University’s predecessor CAST, in his capacity as Vice President, Students, International and Alumni, Mohawk College, Canada, offered advice and insight on ‘Establishing a system of Micro-credentials: Challenges and Opportunities’. He expounded on the importance of having conversations prior to and during the process of implementing Micro-credentials. He also commented on the importance of considering the type of experience the Unversity wishes for students as “micro credentials would be based on competencies and will validate adaptable, transferable or in demand skills” while being measured by learning competence as opposed to learning hours. Ms. Christine Carpenter, Vice President Membership Services, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), USA offered further insight on ‘Creating Value for Employees and the Industry through Micro-credential Badges’. In her presentation she implored the University to continually “partner with work-based learning partners and organizations”. Consequently, she indicated the importance of the stack-ability of Micro-credentials for adult learners. Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, UTech, Jamaica Dr. Jeanette Bartley-Bryan, Associate VP, Open and Distance Learning, UTech, Jamaica Dr. Cebert Adamson, Vice President, Students, International and Alumni, Mohawk College, Canada Ms. Sandy Lawrence, PLA Coordinator, UTech, Jamaica Ms. Christine Carpenter, Vice President Membership Services, Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), USA. PLA Symposium Explores Micro-credentials as Flexible Learning Pathway
11 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The current state of the moral and social ethics of Jamaica, and its impact on Jamaica’s present and future development, were the main focus of the 9th UTech, Jamaica/JMMB Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture, which was broadcast live on TVJ on Sunday, May 15, 2022. The annual Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture, is hosted by the University of Technology, Jamaica’s Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), 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. Themed “A Suh De Ting Set”: The Urgent Need to Bring Back Moral and Social Ethics to our Public and Private Priorities, the lecture featured panelists Professor Paul Golding, Professor of Management and Information Systems, UTech, Jamaica; Mrs. Donna Duncan-Scott, Chief Culture and Human Development Officer, JMMB Group; Reverend Dr. Devon Dick, Pastor, Boulevard Baptist Church and Mr. Karl Graham, Senior Research Officer, Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP), who tackled the theme from their respective perspectives and experiences, with moderator Mr. Prince Graham-Haynes, Lecturer, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), College of Business and Management (COBAM). In his welcome, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Professor Colin Gyles noted that the longstanding relationship with the JMMB Group dates back twenty-two years, when the Joan Duncan Chair in Research and Finance was established at the University. He noted that in 2011 the School of Entrepreneurship at the University was renamed the Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership, and is the first business entrepreneur incubator of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. Mrs. Donna Duncan-Scott expressed that the lecture provides the opportunity to remember her mother’s leadership and contribution to society. Addressing questions posed by the moderator, the panelists weighed in on the problem of the pervasive mindset or way of thinking in our society, which accepts unethical practices as part of a normalized culture of “A Suh De Ting Set”. Mrs. Duncan-Scott noted that the issue of doing what is right and what is wrong is not clear cut, when there is a culture of corruption. Giving the example of purchasing drivers’ licenses, instead of sitting and passing the examination, Mrs. Duncan-Scott pointed out that people, particularly young people, are more likely to go the illegal route, than contending with the rigours of the driving examination, in which the examiner “fails you for every little thing.” She also emphasized that the conversation about doing what is right needs to be an ongoing one. Professor Golding, who has led research into areas of societal concerns, indicated that data shows that 80 per cent of Jamaicans believe that corruption is entrenched in society. He also noted that research showed that central Government in Jamaica, was perceived as the most corrupt entity, with the media being viewed as the entity that is least corrupt. In light of this, Professor Golding recommended that the perception of leadership, particularly those in politics should be reset, with “a fiduciary relationship being established between the leadership and the people,” where greater accountability and consequences for unethical and immoral action are enforced. Rev. Dr. Dick, emphasized that if “we are asking ourselves the question, if is ‘so de ting set’, how will we analyse it and how will we reset it?” In responding, Rev. Dr. Dick argued that for a values-and-attitudes campaign to work best, it has to have a wide buy-in among the private sector, civil society, church and political parties. Mr. Graham offering his perspective, indicated “when you hear a Jamaican say ‘so de ting set’, the inference is as though there is a bit of hopelessness, that it is set in this particular paradigm, that it is set in this way, and that it is unchangeable.” He suggested “what we really want to do is to change that mindset, so that we can now shift the focus.” Mr. Graham also pointed to the work of the Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP), which is engaging the public to improve governance in Jamaica and to increase the level of accountability in public institutions. The broadcast also featured a short documentary that underscored the contributions of pioneer money market broker Mrs. Joan Duncan, co-founder of JMMB Group, who through her own life’s example sought to establish “love and honesty” at the heart of social, professional and financial relationships. 9th UTech, Jamaica/JMMB Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture Examines Moral and Social Ethics in Jamaica (From l-r) Reverend Dr. Devon Dick, Pastor, Boulevard Baptist Church, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica, Mrs. Donna Duncan-Scott, Chief Culture and Human Development Officer, JMMB Group, Professor Paul Golding, Professor of Management and Information Systems, UTech, Jamaica, Mr. Prince Graham-Haynes, Lecturer, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), College of Business and Management (COBAM), UTech, Jamaica and Mr. Karl Graham, Senior Research Officer, Jamaica Accountability Meter Portal (JAMP) display gifts presented by Mrs. Duncan-Scott at the 9th UTech, Jamaica/JMMB Joan Duncan Memorial Lecture, broadcast live on TVJ on Sunday, May 15, 2022.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 12 Some of the opportunities that have emerged for entrepreneurs really lie around convenience and also shifting the focus from being face to face to online. A lot of companies will try to make the shift internally, but there are a lot of opportunities for entrepreneurs who are willing to execute the adjustment to get with the change. I’ve realized that since the beginning of the pandemic, the logistics industry has thrived. People are using their initiative, going into delivery and shipping, trying to make money and it is actually working for a lot of entrepreneurs. Participants in the 2022 UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition were asked “What opportunities have emerged for entrepreneurship in Jamaica, post COVID-19?” Read on for their responses. I think the pandemic has renewed our confidence in what we can actually do. Entrepreneurs have always been able to find ways to present different offerings but now it is more urgent, and there is more time to develop ideas. Shanoy Smith Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies For schools, universities and for work, persons have to be online. With the restrictions, a lot of businesses are utilizing technology more. The reliance on technology because of COVID-19 has been helping persons to innovate. STUDENT VOICES Tavoy Barrett College of Business and Management Shasantay Jennings College of Business and Management Shantay Siddo College of Business and Management
13 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica The pandemic has really brought opportunities to utilize technology in a way that we can take advantage of ways we can stay connected, and how we can really use that to get business done. It has also created ways to boost existing and new businesses. We’ll see a new paradigm in how businesses operate going forward. Most consumers have adapted to the digital age because of COVID-19, so businesses that operate online are seeing an advantage over those who do not. COVID-19 has revealed issues, in terms of our economic development, with imports and food security. There have been a lot of disruptions in the export and import market. Entrepreneurs, like me, can innovate and build prototypes to improve different areas, particularly in agriculture, especially to improve our food security. Since COVID, it has been easier for companies to market themselves online, and to reach a greater customer base, with most of the consumers being online. Twae-Jordan Rose Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Kashlon Palmer Faculty of Engineering and Computing Jelanie Kidd College of Business and Management Ashley Lawrence Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies STUDENT VOICES
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 14 School of Pharmacy students Raphaella Sommerville (2nd left), and Rolaina McKnight (2nd right), display digital tablets donated by the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica for students in need. Sharing the moment are (l-r) Mrs. Modupeola Abayomi, Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and member of the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica, Mrs. Tieca Harris Kidd, Programme Director, BSc. in Pharmaceutical Technology, Dr. Andrea Daly, Head, School of Pharmacy and Dr. Stephanie Mullings, Programme Director, Bachelor of Pharmacy during a presentation at the College of Health Sciences, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus on February 25, 2022. Seventeen student volunteers from University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union and the Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON) gave a helping hand at the Social Services Fair, organised by the Ministry of National Security (MNS) held in Rocky Point, Clarendon on Labour Day, May 23, 2022. UTech, Jamaica students assisted in managing booths, a kiddies’ village and attending to patients at the community’s health centre. UTech, Jamaica Helps to Ease Furniture Shortage at Jamaica College Students Participate in Ministry of National Security’s Labour Day Outreach Project COMMUNITY SERVICE AND OUTREACH Officers of UTech, Jamaica and Jamaica College share in a photo opportunity on May 4, 2022 at the Jamaica College campus during a presentation by the University of a loan of one hundred chairs to the high school, following its appeal for assistance. From left are Mr. Rohan Wong, Vice Principal, Upper School, Jamaica College, Mrs. Dorrset GabbidonPottinger, Assistant Registrar, Student Services, UTech, Jamaica, Mrs. Genefa Hibbert, Vice President and Chief Operations and Projects Officer, UTech, Jamaica Zachary Russell, Form 1F Captain, Jamaica College and Mr. Wayne Robinson, Acting Principal, Jamaica College. Paulton Gordon (left), Director, Community Service and Development, UTech, Jamaica strikes a pose with student volunteers at the MNS Social Services Fair on May 23, 2022. A student of the Caribbean School of Nursing, UTech, Jamaica assists a patient at the health centre.
15 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Architect Jacquian Lawton, Head, Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA), FOBE expressed that the light tables, valued at $220,000.00, are a welcome addition to the range of resources that the CSA employs to give students the best possible training. “These light tables are tools which are relevant to understanding three dimensional thinking through two dimensional cut drawings,” she explained. Mr. Martin Linton, UTech, Ja alumnus and Commercial Manager, Construction Systems International and Ms. Michelle Miller, People Services Coordinator, Neustone Projects, presented the tables to the CSA. Mr. Linton expressed the company’s pride at being able to fulfill the request of students, who identified the light tables as a major piece of equipment that would enhance their course of study, at a meeting at the beginning of the Academic year. The tables were designed and custom-built following consultation with the Faculty. Four UTech, Jamaica students from the College of Health Sciences (COHS) and the Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences were awarded a total of $350,000.00 in scholarships by representatives of Indies Pharma, a Jamaican pharmaceutical distributor, on June 10, 2022 at a special presentation ceremony at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. The recipients are Danielle Hamil and Javeik Shaw, Bachelor of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences students and Bethany Blake and Shanique Dunstan, Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Joint College of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Science students. Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, COHS congratulated the students on their stellar achievement, expressing “your hard work and desire to succeed propelled you into this unique position.” She also thanked Indies Pharma for their “generous assistance to our students, during this difficult time,” adding that the scholarship will go a far way in assisting the students to complete their courses of study. Miss Sabrina Serrant, Assistant Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Indies Pharma, who brought remarks on behalf of the President and CEO of the company, Dr. Guna Muppuri, O.D., noted that the occasion is a special one that “commemorated the passion, vision and mission of Indies Pharma in recognising the achievements of our future generation and contributing to the educational and social development of our country.” Bethany Blake, in delivering the vote of thanks, noted “by virtue of the company’s support of the educational endeavours of students like me, our dreams and aspirations will become a reality.” Caribbean School of Architecture Receives Donation of Light Tables Four Students Awarded Scholarships by Indies Pharma Officers of UTech, Jamaica join Indies Pharma scholarship recipients for a photo during a presentation ceremony on June 10, 2022 at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. From left are Mrs. Tamara Martin, Programme Director – Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences, Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences, students Miss Shanique Dunstan, Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Miss Danielle Hamil, Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Miss Bethany Blake, Bachelor of Pharmacy, COHS and Dr. Andrea Daly, Head, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences. Absent is student, Mr. Javeik Shaw, Bachelor of Pharmacy, who joined the ceremony via Zoom. (L-R) Ms. Jacquiann Lawton, Head, Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA), Faculty of The Built Environment (FOBE), Mr. Andre Baugh, Programme Director, Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies (BAAS), Ms. Salema Oti, Design Studio Lead and Lecturer, FOBE, Ms. Michelle Miller, People Services Coordinator, Neustone Projects and Mr. Martin Linton, Commercial Manager, Construction Systems International are all smiles at the presentation of light tables by the two companies, to enhance teaching and learning tools in the BAAS course of study. The donation was presented on April 4, 2022 at the CSA, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | April – June 2022 16 Dr. The Hon. Rae Davis, OJ Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Presented to School of Engineering Students Third year School of Engineering (SOE), Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC) Civil Engineering student Kaalah Cespedes is the grateful recipient of the Dr. The Honourable Rae Davis, OJ Memorial Scholarship, which was presented by his widow Mrs. Jemelia Davis, and his daughter Miss Philippa Davies, at a special ceremony at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus on April 8, 2022. During the ceremony, a bursary was also presented to Shenelle Tyrell, 3rd year Civil Engineering student. Following his passing in 2021, the Memorial Scholarship was created by his family, to honour the former President of the University of Technology, Jamaica for his impact and remarkable contribution to the institution. Dr. Davis, who served as the University’s second president from 1996 to 2006, led the successful transition of the institution from college to university. To be eligible for the scholarship, students were required to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above, while being enrolled in the their third or fourth year of an Engineering degree course of study. Scholarship contenders were also expected to be actively involved in community service and volunteerism, and be able to demonstrate verifiable financial need. Candidates faced a panel of judges during interviews administrated by the University’s Scholarship Office. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica noted that the scholarship is a “fitting and appropriate” way to honour Dr. Davis’ memory, expressing that “Dr. Davis always promoted excellence. Professor Gyles also praised Dr. Davis’ contribution to education, not only at UTech, Jamaica, but also at the national level through his crafting and guidance of policy. Noting that the scholarship was a fitting way to honour the memory of her husband, Mrs. Davis thanked the University for its support in her family’s time of bereavement, and for the continued efforts to honour Dr. Davis’ memory. She also congratulated the scholarship and bursary recipients for their “outstanding performance not only in the classroom, but also in the interview”, adding that “the family will be very keen on hearing about your progress and how you are doing later on.” Miss Davies, adding her congratulations, expressed hope that “when you have attained your great heights, you will look behind you to help others on their way.” Kaalah Cespedes, who responded also on behalf of her fellow recipient, expressed heartfelt gratitude at the opportunity, noting that as prospective engineers, “Dr. Davis’ achievements and involvements are very big shoes to fill.” She indicated that the scholarship has assisted her and her fellow recipient to “move another rung on the ladder to success by giving us a chance to achieve our dreams,” adding that “it has opened a door to a brighter future and will play a key role in shaping us into successful engineers someday.” Third year Civil Engineering students Kaalah Cespedes (3rd left) and Shenelle Tyrell (2nd left) happily display their cheques for the Dr. The Honourable Rae Davis, OJ Memorial Scholarship and Bursary respectively, during a special presentation ceremony at the University of Technology, Jamaica Papine Campus on April 8, 2022. Sharing the happy occasion are (from left) Mrs. Carolyn Ferguson-Arnold, Lecturer, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC), Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Mrs. Jemelia Davis, widow of Dr. the Honourable Rae Davis, OJ, former UTech, Jamaica President and Ms. Philippa Davies, his daughter. Dr. Davis’ official portrait from his time as UTech, Jamaica President is visible at right.
17 April – June 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Technology Innovation Centre (TIC), University of Technology, Jamaica client companies; Smart Technologies Jamaica Limited, Jamsol Technologies Limited and ThinkBrite Solutions Limited have been awarded the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) IGNITE Grants, in the sum of $17 million. The IGNITE grants, which began in 2016, are offered by the DBJ to start-up companies to provide funding for commercially viable inventions and business solutions. Smart Technologies Jamaica Limited is an innovative software solutions design firm offering ICT-related products and services, primarily for human resource management, time and attendance monitoring and payroll integration; Jamsol Technologies Limited develops patented tools specifically designed to work for tropical environments and ThinkBrite Solutions Limited provides software consulting and intelligent messaging services and other software services. The grants are channeled through Business Service Intermediaries, such as the TIC, that offer business support services to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), and assist by monitoring the progress of grant recipients, whose project are supervised for a twelve-month period. Through the initiative, the DBJ aims to assist businesses to achieve “growth along their business life cycle, enhance economic returns in terms of level of investments, revenue, employment and export, improve business capacity, business processes and sophistication and increase the start-up survival rate after two years of creation.” To qualify for the grant, applicants must be a startup or newly incorporated business, registered and operating in Jamaica for one year, with a new or significant improvement on an existing product or service, who present a business model or product representation to the DBJ. The College of Health Sciences (COHS), through its School of Allied Health and Wellness, hosted its 3rd Health Information Management (HIM) Conference and Symposium on May 19, 2022, via Zoom. The Conference, themed “Transforming Healthcare with Health Data” brought together experts and professionals in the medical, ICT and data management fields to share emerging developments in Health Information Management and to provide a forum to highlight the impact and significance of health data, particularly in light of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conference Chair, Dr. Nola Hill-Berry, Lecturer, College of Health Sciences, noted the Conference was timely given the “realities and complexities of today’s health care environment,” which have created unease, and have also been accompanied by “changing data needs, new health information management processes, and a superfluity of information.” Mrs. Sonia Richards-Malcolm, Vice Dean, COHS, who brought greetings, underscored the significance of health data, particularly as a means to guide medical best practices throughout the pandemic. She applauded the Conference organizing team, for “pivoting systematically” and inviting experts in the Health Information Management field to provide guidance in organising, overseeing and protecting health data. Dr. Vanessa White-Barrow, Head, School of Allied Health and Wellness, also lauded the timeliness of the discussions, noting that health information is “an area of emphasis that is required to ensure that Jamaicans successfully navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the age old challenges that are posed by our resource constraints.” Keynote speaker at the opening ceremony, Mr. Charlton McFarlane, Chief Executive Officer,Registrar General’s Department, brought to bear his extensive Dr. Nola Hill-Berry, Lecturer, College of Health Sciences Three Technology Innovation Centre Client Companies Awarded DBJ IGNITE Grants 3rd Health Information Management Virtual Conference and Symposium Development Bank of Jamaica IGNITE grant awardees (from left) Damian Chambers, Founder and CEO, Smart Technologies Jamaica; Anthony Williams, Programme Developer, and Mark Bennett, Founder and CEO, Jamsol Technologies Limited and Aldrean Smith, Founder and CEO, ThinkBrite Solutions Limited received $17 Million in grant funding for their innovative business solutions.
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