Pioneering Past and Bright of Impactful Research and Scholarly Achievements

“EXCELLENCE THROUGH KNOWLEDGE” P A G E 4 The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Jamaica) started in 1958, as the Jamaica Institute of Technology. In 1959 the name of the institution was changed to the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) Scheme of 1959. This was validated by an ACT of Parliament in 1964. In 1986, the CAST Scheme was revised in order to make the College a degree-granting institution, and the College became legally empowered to conduct affairs under a governing Council and Academic Board. The institution was formally accorded University status on September 1, 1995 as the University of Technology, Jamaica. The history of the institution is intimately connected with the social and economic development of Jamaica. From just over 50 students and four programmes in 1958, UTech, Jamaica has grown to become Jamaica’s premier national institution for tertiary education with a student population of 13, 000. It now offers more than 130 programmes at the certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and graduate degree levels through its three colleges and five faculties. The University has further expanded access to its programme offerings to meet the demands of business and industry by establishing campuses and satellite locations in other locations in Kingston and also in Montego Bay, St. James. In addition, several programmes are franchised through links with community colleges, andmost programmes are linked tonational and international professional organizations. Syllabuses are modeled on the English polytechnic system, with emphasis on flexibility of approach, work-based, experiential learning and professional linkages through cooperative work- based programmes. Flexibility in the University’s academic programmes is reflected in the various modes of course delivery, which include the establishment of a Semesterised mode of delivery introduced in academic year 1999/2000 and further adjusted and piloted in 2009-2010. The University’s mandate is reflected in its mission to “stimulate positive change in Caribbean Society through the provision of high quality learning and research opportunities and service to our communities.” As such, the University’s three core pillars are Teaching, Research, and Service. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, JAMAICA