The UWI Announces 2018 Global Giving Campaign

In commemoration of its 70th anniversary, The University of the West Indies (The UWI) seeks to raise funds through its annual Global Giving Programme. But, more than purely fundraising, the 2018 campaign aims to connect and engage with individuals and partners in the public and private sector regionally and internationally to play an active role in strengthening The UWI’s capacity to drive regional development.

In a personal appeal, particularly to its alumni population, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hilary Beckles noted some of The UWI’s achievements over the past 70 years and urged them to give back to their university. He highlighted the University’s recent top ranking by the Times Higher Education (THE) and called on them to support this upward trend and global trajectory.

The 2018 Global Giving campaign which runs till December appeals to alumni, public and private sector organisations, donor agencies and members of the public to contribute to research, facilities and equipment, construction and maintenance of residence halls, as well as faculties and programmes, with this year particularly focused on funding the recently established Faculty of Sport.

Endorsement of this Global Giving programme has been received from regional patrons—who are also alumni of The UWI: Ambassador Missouri Sherman-Peter of The Bahamas; His Excellency Dr Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua & Barbuda; the Rt. Hon. Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados; His Excellency Sir Colville Young, Governor-General of Belize; Her Excellency Dame Cécile La Grenade, Governor General of Grenada; the Most Hon P. J. Patterson, former Prime Minister of Jamaica; Her Excellency Dame Pearlette Louisy, former Governor-General of St Lucia; and Sir Tapley Seaton, Governor General of St Kitts & Nevis.

The UWI has traditionally relied on regional governments for financial support but increasing economic challenges throughout the region have made it critical for the most longstanding provider of higher education in the Commonwealth Caribbean to conduct its own fundraising in order to survive. The annual Global Giving Programme which began in 2016, was initiated by The Office of the Vice-Chancellor, through its Institutional Advancement Division.

Persons interested in giving to The UWI are invited to visit www.uwi.edu/giving or contact Ms Minna Israel at minna.israel@uwimona.edu.jm.