UTech, Jamaica’s leaders encourage 2024 graduates to “soar to higher heights” and tell institution’s “story of greatness”
Mr. Aldrick McNab, Pro-Chancellor, University of Technology, Jamaica, addresses the Graduating Class of 2024 and distinguished guests during the university’s graduation ceremony on November 16, 2024 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus. Pictured in the front row from left are The Hon. Fayval Williams, MP, Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Glen Christian, OJ, CEO and Chairman of the Cari-Med Group of Companies and Hon Gary “Butch” Hendrickson, OJ, Chairman & CEO of Continental Baking Company Ltd., along with guests of the honorary graduates.
UTech, Jamaica’s Pro-Chancellor, Mr. Aldrick McNab and President, Dr. Kevin Brown urged the Graduating Class of 2024 to soar to new heights while telling the institution’s story of greatness. The leaders were speaking at the university’s graduation ceremonies held on November 15 and 16 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium at the Papine Campus.
In his address to the over 1000 graduates, the Pro-Chancellor told the new alumni that “Whilst this is a milestone, the real journey has just begun. You are stepping into a world that is both hospitable to excellence and unyielding towards mediocrity.” Mr. McNab further urged the graduates “to stay the course, dream big…fearlessly,” adding “Do not limit yourselves to ambitions that merely change your community: be audacious enough to want to change the world.”
Mr. McNab assured the graduates that “UTech Jamaica has provided a solid platform for you to take on the world. Your achievements, your degrees should underscore your self-belief of being competent and your competency should serve as your source of courage in moving forward.” The Pro-Chancellor impressed upon the graduates that as they progress through life, they should be mindful that education is the foundation and the pathway to a world of possibilities and that they have been duly equipped to make it worthwhile.
President… “We are telling our story of excellence!”
Dr. Kevin Brown, President, University of Technology, Jamaica noted that the institution is able to tell its story of greatness through the yearly output of exceptional students who continue to contribute to nation building locally and internationally. Dr. Brown expressed that UTech, Ja has been exceeding its mandate of producing Jamaica’s technical workforce. “The University of Technology, Jamaica has and will continue to produce greatness. Sixty-six years ago, we were created to produce Jamaica’s Technical Vocational workforce. We have extended that and moved beyond TVET to STEM. We are Jamaica’s premier STEM university” the President asserted.
Dr. Brown highlighted UTech, UTech, Jamaica’s impact by acknowledging distinguished alumni such as former Police Commissioner, Major General Antony Anderson, international music icon, Sean Paul Henriques, both of whom received honourary degrees at the graduation ceremony. He also pointed to leaders of prominent public agencies such as the Jamaica Public Service and the National Water Commission as evidence of, UTech, Jamaica’s influence. “All these institutions you hear of - who leads them? They are past students,” Dr. Brown emphasized, adding, “Often, the recognition is not there, so we are telling our story now…we are producing Jamaica’s workforce…we have produced the region’s workforce” he asserted.
The President further highlighted UTech, Jamaica’s regional impact in public health and architecture, noting that the university is home to the region’s only Caribbean School of Architecture and School of Public Health and Health Technology. Underscoring the university’s pivotal role in national development, the President stated that “the leadership of this institution remains committed to delivering quality graduates.” He told the graduates that they should feel proud of their association with UTech, Jamaica as the institution delivers on academics and experiential learning. He charged them to serve as UTech Ambassadors, taking what they have learnt into the work world and continuing the university’s legacy of excellence as they are poised to “go places” and ? exceed boundaries .
Valedictorians… “A battle fought and won!”
Valedictorians, Melissa Hall who completed a BSc. in Dental Laboratory Technology at the Joint Colleges of Medicine Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences earned first class honours with a GPA of 4.08 and Jerome Garwood who completed a BSc. in Quantity Surveying in the Faculty of the Built Environment earned first class honours with a GPA of 3.79 addressed the gatherings on November 15 and 16 respectively, equated theirs and their fellow graduates’ successful completion of studies to that of a battle fought and won.
Hall who completed a BSc. in Dental Laboratory Technology at the Joint Colleges of Medicine Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences Melissa Hall raised a toast to her colleagues, reminding them that, “Your work is great, your roots run deep and your crowns are bright, so let’s make Jamaica smile…let’s toast to our resolve, our journey and our bright future.” Hall congratulated her fellow graduates for surmounting numerous challenges such as the educational disruptions caused by COVID-19 to have made it to the end of their studies. “The fight was hard, but like the Knights that we are, we strapped on our armours and headed into battle” she recounted. She continued, “We questioned whether we would make it to the finish line…but here we are today, proud graduates of the University of Technology, Jamaica.” Hall called on graduates from Faculty of Engineering and Computing to improve efficiency and productivity and to enhance technological systems in Jamaica. She challenged graduates from the Faculty of Law to provide effective representation in Jamaica’s legal and justice system while reminding those from the College of Health Sciences that their skills are in high demand to transform the lives of patients. Hall also implored her batchmates from the Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences to know that the nation is counting on them to make a profound impact within the healthcare sector.
Jerome Garwood who pursued a BSc. in Quantity Surveying in the Faculty of the Built Environment also commended the graduating cohort stating, “We have battled, and we have won! We celebrate donning our shining armour which so happens to be a graduation gown, reflecting pride, perseverance and promise.” Garwood encouraged his colleagues to note that they are “privileged individuals” now equipped with a “worldclass education” and as such, they are to “lead the way” and let their lights shine before those who “are stuck in darkness, desperately seeking light.”
He noted that the University of Technology, Jamaica’s delivers on its philosophical promise of developing the ‘whole person.’ He referenced UTech, Jamaica’s welfare and student financing initiatives such as the Earn and Study and the 65th Anniversary Scholarship programmes which helped to alleviate the financial burdens of students. “Today, we are here as quantity surveyors, human resource managers, scientists and educators because UTech, Jamaica believed and invested in our potential.” He advised his peers to “be mindful that the work is not yet done,” as they have a role to play in the actualization of UTech’s Vision to transform the society.
He noted that as “transformed individuals reborn at the Birthplace of Greatness” it is the responsibility of graduates from the College of Business and Management to “drive economic success and build business and policies that uplift communities.” The valedictorian also called on new alumni from the Faculty of Science and Sport to advance solutions in environmental challenges while emphasizing the need for those from the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies to ignite change that will inspire learning and understanding in an evolving and complex world. Garwood also appealed to graduates from the Faculty of The Built Environment to be cognizant of the fact that as urbanization rapidly increases, their roles in shaping resilient and sustainable cities have grown equally critical. He challenged built environment professionals to “lead through innovative designs and environmental consciousness.” Garwood further underscored the importance of collaboration among all the graduates and the university to guide and edify society for a better future.
Honorary Graduates
The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Jamaica) conferred honorary degrees on distinguished Jamaicans Major General Antony Anderson, CD, former Commissioner of Police of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF); with a Doctor of Technology Honoris Causa (Hon. DTech) and internationally renowned musician and entertainer Sean Paul Henriques, OD, with the honorary Doctor of Letters (Hon. DLitt) at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024. Mr. Christopher Zacca, CD, prominent Jamaican business leader was conferred with the honorary Doctor of Laws (Hon. LLD at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Mrs. Cynthia Shako received the Chancellor’s medal for her work in establishing the Cynthia Shako Early Childhood Education and Daycare Centre.
Honorary Graduates, Dr. Sean Paul Henriques, OD (3rd left) and Major General Antony Anderson, CD, (centre) share a photo with Officers of the University of Technology, Jamaica following conferment of Honorary Degrees on them at the institution’s Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus. Pictured from left are Professor Shermaine Barrett, Acting Deputy President, Mr. Aldrick McNab, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Kevin Brown, President, Ambassador Lloyd Carney, Chancellor and Miss Marion Brown, Vice President & University Registrar.
Doctor of Letters
Chancellor, Ambassador Lloyd Carney (left) presents Dr. Sean Paul Henriques, OD, Grammy Award-winning music star with the honorary Doctor of Letters (Hon. DLitt) at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Henriques in expressing gratitude, said he felt “truly humbled” to receive the prestigious degree as he reflected on his journey. “I am standing here today in awe looking at the faces of the graduates full of anticipation of what the future may hold for you and looking back. I can’t help but remember almost thirty years of unexpected, unexplained events, collaborations and amazing experiences. I can tell you now, none of it was exactly planned out.” He shared, “it was all a dream, but the seeds of my dream were firmly planted, my daily efforts became months then years and began to blossom into today’s reality.”
He encouraged graduates to focus on the positive, sharing his own story of overcoming obstacles. Raised by a single mother while his father was in prison, he initially thought his dream of becoming an entertainer and producer was out of reach. He enrolled at the College of Arts, Science and Technology, now University of Technology, Jamaica, with the intention of studying architecture, but when that path didn’t work out, he pivoted to Hospitality Management, which he fondly recalled as a time of growth, learning, and embracing change.
The renowned entertainer went on to share, “I remember my years here at UTech fondly, my need to study, contribute to my family and community and make an impact.” Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Back then, I was a blank canvas, didn’t know what the painting would turn out to look like or what the future would bring for me but committed in giving my best efforts in whatever it was regardless of the outcome.” Despite the challenges and broken promises in the music industry, Dr. Henriques emphasized, “I did not give up.” He urged the graduates to pursue their dreams with determination and not to let setbacks deter them.
He advised graduates, “don’t be afraid to dream big, learn to adapt and remember changes are inevitable. Your dreams should not harm your surroundings. If you keep this discipline, one day, you will look back in awe of your journey and give thanks.” He ended with, “it is your time to go out and make a difference and invoke positive change in all that you see around you.”
Doctor of Technology
Major General Antony Anderson, CD, Former Commissioner of Police receives his honorary Doctor of Technology Honoris Causa (Hon. DTech) from Ambassador Lloyd Carney, Chancellor at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024
The UTech, Jamaica alumnus expressed his honour at returning to the university campus —not only to be recognized, but to witness the success of the graduating class of 2024.
Reflecting on his time as a student at the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST), Major General Anderson shared a sense of nostalgia and pride in the university’s growth. He noted the significant developments, from CAST’s transformation into UTech, Jamaica to its expanded academic offerings and improved infrastructure. He emphasized, “the change from CAST to UTech came with a mandate to support national growth and development through Science and Technology. That mandate is as relevant today as it was thirty years ago” especially with the rise of artificial intelligence.
Major Anderson acknowledged the university's continuing role in preparing graduates for the future, saying, “it is no doubt that the institution continues to graduate young men and women like you, even better prepared for this reality than I was.” He recalled how his education in practical engineering, combined with a focus on logical thinking and problem-solving, laid the foundation for his career. He also credited the community service requirement for instilling a sense of civic responsibility, which contributed to his success in the defense and security sectors locally and withing the region.
Reflecting on the opportunities provided by UTech, Jamaica, he reminded the graduates, “UTech has provided for you, graduands with the life skills, formal education that can allow you to achieve success in whatever path you take.” He encouraged them to strive for their fullest potential, adding “you have the tools, aim high.”
Doctor of Laws
Ambassador Lloyd Carney (left), Chancellor, UTech, Jamaica presents Honorary Graduate, Dr. Christopher Zacca with the honorary Doctor of Laws (Hon. LLD). Dr. Zacca, prominent businessman, and President and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica Limited was conferred with the degree during the University of Technology, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus.
Expressing gratitude, prominent businessman, Dr. Zacca shared, “I am profoundly grateful to the University of Technology, Jamaica for bestowing upon me this honorary degree. This year has truly been unforgettable for me and as we near the close of 2024, this honour is a timely reminder of the values that have shaped my journey.”
He spoke to graduates about the legacy they would leave behind. “As you prepare to take on the world, I know that all of you sitting here today are eager to achieve greatness, eager to make your mark but let me share a truth that I have learnt over the years, success is not measured solely by titles, wealth or accolades. True success lies in the positive impact you make, the kindness you show and the values you uphold.”
He emphasized the importance of partnerships, “I have seen the power of partnership, bridging divides between the public and private sectors to create jobs, build infrastructure and fuel economic growth. In fact, I’ve dedicated half of my career to this cause. These efforts remind me that progress is a team sport and as I reflect on my recent induction into the PSOJ hall of fame, I am reminded that there is still so much more to do. Strong, sustainable and equitable growth remains and elusive target and Jamaica needs a whole of society partnership to agree on and deliver on a new growth plan.”
Dr. Zacca also highlighted the achievement of nursing student Ramone Young, who received the R. Danny Williams Award for Vision and Leadership for the 2024 Sagicor Scholarship. He praised Ramone’s deep love for Jamaica and his selflessness, as he shared Ramone’s vision of wanting to build Jamaia. He noted that the proud UTech, Jamaica student expressed, “I want to help build Jamaica into the country we know it can be. I know that this may be a difficult choice for many but this is a necessary commitment if we are to achieve the transformation this nation needs.”
Encouraging the graduates, Dr. Zacca said, “you hold the power to shape our nation’s future,” imploring them to invest in Jamaica, build human capital, and contribute to the country’s growth.
He concluded with a call to action: “The future is yours. Carry this legacy forward, build partnerships, unite communities, and together, let us create a Jamaica that our children and grandchildren will be proud to call home.”
Chancellor’s Medal
Ambassador Lloyd Carney presents Mrs. Cynthia Shako, former Head of Health Care Services at the former College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST), with the Chancellor’s medal. Mrs. Shako was recognized at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2024, for her work in establishing the Cynthia Shako Early Childhood Education and Daycare Centre.
Mrs. Cynthia Shako, nurse practitioner and former Head of Health Care Services at the former College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST), now UTech, Jamaica, was honoured with the award of the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal at UTech, Jamaica's Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2024, for her pioneering work in establishing the Cynthia Shako Early Childhood Education and Daycare Centre in June 1993 at the university’s Papine Campus
The daycare Centre was founded with the mission of providing non-profit, full-day and aftercare services for the children of students and staff.
As the College population grew, Mrs. Shako recognized the need for aftercare services for staff children, as well as daycare for infants of both staff and students. The Centre has also served as an important practical training ground for students in Child Care and related courses within the College of Health Sciences.
Today, the Centre continues to uphold its goal of positively and systematically influencing the development of the children of UTech, Jamaica's students and employees. Over the years, this has resulted in significant social and emotional growth, improved physical health, and intellectual development for the children under its care. Mrs. Shako’s visionary leadership over the past 30 years has been instrumental in the Centre’s success.
The Centre has since expanded to meet the evolving needs of the University community and beyond, offering exceptional services including daycare, aftercare, and summer programmes designed to stimulate, nurture, and develop children. It was certified by the Early Childhood Commission in 2016 and is among the first 300 schools to achieve this prestigious symbol of quality.
The Chancellor’s Medal is the University’s most prestigious non-academic award, equivalent in status to an Honorary Doctorate. It is bestowed by the Chancellor to recognize individuals or institutions of national or international significance for their outstanding contributions.
Mrs. Shako reflected on the center’s impact, noted, “the Centre continues to thrive and has served its purpose of providing a solution for not just staff but for many students who may not have otherwise been able to continue higher education” and expressed gratitude to the university for the honour and recognition of her contribution.
Edward Seaga Award
Ambassador Lloyd Carney, (2nd left) Chancellor, University of Technology, Jamaica, presents Tamonia Forrest with the Edward Seaga Award during the university’s graduation ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, UTech, Jamaica’s Papine Campus. The prestigious UTech, Jamaica Edward Seaga Award was established in 2019 by the University in honour of the institution’s second chancellor and former Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Edward Seaga ON, PC. Presented annually, the award acknowledges the undergraduate with the highest GPA among the graduating class. Tamonia Forrest, who earned the BSc in Midwifery with First Class Honours, became the sixth recipient of this esteemed award, achieving the highest overall GPA of 4.11 for the 2023/2024 academic year. Joining in the presentation are Dr. Kevin Brown, President and Miss Marion Brown, Vice President and University Registrar, UTech, Jamaica.
Doctoral Graduates
Dr. David White (centre), Head, School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT), UTech, Jamaica celebrates his award of the Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science from the University of Technology, Jamaica during the institution’s Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus. Sharing in the photo are members of UTech, Jamaica leadership (l-r) Professor Shermaine Barrett, Acting Deputy President, Mr. Aldrick McNab, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Kevin Brown, President, Ambassador Lloyd Carney, Chancellor, Miss Marion Brown, Vice President & University Registrar and Professor Sean Thorpe, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Computing.
Dr. Tamika Johnson- Thompson (centre) celebrates her award of the Post- Baccalaureate Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Technology, Jamaica during the institution’s Graduation Ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus. Sharing in the photo are members of UTech, Jamaica leadership (l-r) Professor Shermaine Barrett, Acting Deputy President, Mr. Aldrick McNab, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Kevin Brown, President, Ambassador Lloyd Carney, Chancellor, Miss Marion Brown, Vice President & University Registrar and Professor Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences.
UTech, Jamaica PhD graduates Dr. Van Der Rowe (5th right) and Dr. Lola Bennett (4th right) were awarded with the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Management and Doctor of Philosophy in Career and Technical Education- Family and consumer Studies respectively during the University of Technology, Jamaica’s Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium, Papine Campus. Sharing in the photo are members of UTech, Jamaica leadership (l-r) Professor Shermaine Barrett, Acting Deputy President, Mr. Aldrick McNab, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Kevin Brown, President, Ambassador Lloyd Carney, Chancellor, Miss Marion Brown, Vice President & University Registrar and Dr. Granville Pitter, Programme Director for Education, School of Technical and Vocational Education, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies.
President’s Honour Roll
The University of Technology, Jamaica recognizes the academic success of its students in various ways. One such is by listing on the President’s Honour Roll those students from the graduating class who have achieved the most outstanding academic performance.
To be eligible, a student must attain a minimum GPA of 3.80. The general criteria stipulate, in addition, that students must be in good standing with the University and must have completed 12 credits per semester including the summer session.
This year, the following students have met the requirements for the President’s Honour Roll:
Watch Day 1 of the Ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gn6I45q6WTs&t=6726s
Watch Day 2 of the Ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9c-tibkMjFc
Click here to View the Programme:
https://www.utech.edu.jm/publications/graduation/
- End -
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