Tribute from Dr. Kevin Brown, President, on the passing of Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ

Tribute from Dr. Kevin Brown, President, on the passing of Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ

It is with profound sadness that the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Jamaica) announces the passing of our esteemed former Principal and President, Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ, on January 27, 2025, at the age of 95. We extend heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, wishing them comfort and strength during this time of loss. Dr. Sangster’s extraordinary contributions have left an indelible mark on the university and the nation.

A Visionary Leader

Dr. Sangster’s tenure at UTech, Jamaica spanned from September 1970 to his retirement in July 1996. As Principal and later President, he was instrumental in the transformation of the College of Arts, Science, and Technology (CAST) into the University of Technology, Jamaica. His visionary leadership propelled the institution to new heights, ensuring that it became a beacon of academic excellence in the Caribbean.

Before joining CAST, Dr. Sangster held several pivotal roles at the University College of the West Indies and the University of the West Indies (UWI) between 1958 and 1970. He witnessed and contributed to the transition of the institution from a College of London University to an independent university with its own Royal Charter. As a senior academic in the Chemistry Department, he taught and mentored students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervising groundbreaking research that resulted in MSc and Ph.D. degrees for his students.

Dr. Sangster also played a key role in establishing the University College in Barbados in 1963 and completed a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Hawaii in 1969. In 1970, he accepted the position of Principal at CAST, marking the beginning of a transformative era.

Transformative Achievements

During his 26-year tenure, Dr. Sangster oversaw remarkable growth and development at CAST/UTech, including:

  • Expansion of student enrolment: From 1,200 to over 6,000 students.
  • Introduction of innovative academic programmes: Over 50 new programmes were launched, diversifying the institution’s offerings.
  • Creation of new departments: Architecture, Computing, and Technical Teacher Training were established under his guidance.
  • Degree-granting status: Dr. Sangster championed the shift from a college scheme to a degree-granting institution, paving the way for CAST to become the University of Technology, Jamaica, in 1995.
  • Membership in the Association of Commonwealth Universities: This milestone underscored the institution’s growing international reputation.
  • Expansion of infrastructure: Significant growth of the physical campus was achieved, much of it without government assistance.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Sangster’s legacy is immortalized in the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, a facility that bears his name and reflects his commitment to holistic education. Opened on February 3, 1996, the auditorium is a multipurpose hall for teaching, training, sports, and recreational activities, featuring facilities for basketball, badminton, table tennis, gymnastics, martial arts, squash, and weight training. It stands as a testament to his dedication to both academics and athletics.

Honors and Recognition

Dr. Sangster’s contributions to education and national development earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Jamaica (OJ) for distinguished service. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from the University of the West Indies and the University of Technology, Jamaica. Beyond his professional achievements, he served as chairman of various private and public boards, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to nation-building.

In addition to his administrative accomplishments, Dr. Sangster authored the influential book The Making of a University – From CAST to UTech, published by Ian Randle Publishers in 2010. This seminal work chronicles the evolution of the institution and provides invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a university. Dr. Sangster, having played a central role in this transformation, was uniquely qualified to document this history. The book serves as both a historical record and an inspiration for educators, policymakers, and society at large, underscoring the importance of vision and perseverance in shaping academic institutions.

Remembering Dr. Sangster

Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ, was not just an educator and administrator; he was a visionary, a mentor, and a builder of institutions. His work at CAST/UTech laid the foundation for countless individuals to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness. An avid sportsman and a true patriot, his memory will continue to inspire generations.

The University of Technology, Jamaica, is committed to further honouring Dr. Sangster’s memory in a manner befitting his monumental legacy. May his life’s work and vision live on, guiding us as we strive for excellence.


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Contact:

Michelle A. Beckford (Mrs.) 
Corporate Communications Manager 
Corporate Communications Unit 
Advancement Division 
University of Technology, Jamaica 
237 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6, Jamaica 
Tel: (876) 970-5299; 927-1680-8 Ext. 2299  
Email: mbeckford@utech.edu.jm