The University of the West Indies

RM FAQs

A risk assessment can be a valuable tool to help your unit identify, evaluate and prioritize its risks in order to improve decision-making and resource allocation. The RMU recommends the process, linked below, for conducting risk assessments. We are here to consult with and assist in the development and facilitation of risk assessments for all UWI Stakeholders. To learn more or request assistance, please contact the URM. 

Please refer to the ‘Quick Reference’ resource to view the document on the Risk Assessment Guidelines which outlines How to Conduct a Risk Assessment.

Student, Academic, Compliance, Financial, Reputational, Strategic, Operational

The UWI stakeholder have 2 roles in managing risks. The first is to be aware of and understand what areas of risks are present in your current position. Once you know the risk area, you need to consider the implications of these risks on yourself, the department and UWI. This second role in managing risk requires you to assess each situation and that you anticipate the consequences of your actions. How do you make such an assessment? Ask yourself the following questions: 

  • Is this action legal? If it is not legal, stop here. 

  • Does this action meet the University's standards? 

  • Does this action meet my professional standards? 

  • Does the "golden rule" apply? How would I feel if I were treated this way? 

  • How would this look on the front page of the newspaper? 

These questions provide a framework to assess risk. If you still do not know what to do, you should seek guidance. The University has many resources to assist you with your decision-making processes including your Human Resources Division, the Office of the Campus/General Counsel, the Risk Management Unit, Management Audit Department, Environmental Health & Safety Office or the University's Whistle Blowing Hotline. 

As employees of the University, we are all risk managers. Whether ‘risk manager’ is our job title or in our job description is irrelevant. We are all presented with risk in the workplace and must act to address risk in an informed manner. 

Risk management (RM) refers to a process that has been established by those charged with governance to identify, assess, measure and monitor risks in daily operations as well as the strategic planning process. RM also involves the concept of turning risks into opportunities. 

Risk management is a process of proactively identifying issues and assessing their potential likelihood and impact on the University. Taking a proactive approach allows the University to anticipate risk and make informed decisions. 

The RMU provides support to UWI stakeholders (leaders, staff, students, alumni, third parties, etc.) with a structured process to identify, assess and prioritise risks and opportunities in support of UWI’s academic and research mission.