The University of the West Indies
University Office of Planning

7 Attributes of the Ideal UWI Graduate

  1. Critical and creative thinker: Graduates must be able to apply analytic thought and logical reasoning to a body of knowledge and to clarify the assumptions, reasoning and evidence of a specific issue and apply scientific principles. Key functions include generating alternative ideas, practices and solutions that are unique and effective, and exploring ways to confront complex and ambiguous problems and provide solutions.
  2. Effective communicator with good interpersonal skills: Graduates must be able to make constructive contributions, communicate persuasively and appropriately, and have excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills.
  3. IT-skilled and information literate: Graduates should acquire both IT and information literacy skills, which are essential parts of a wider concept of knowledge creation. An IT-skilled graduate is competent in the use of computers and software to manage information. Information literacy is the ability to recognise when there is a need for information, and to be able to identify, locate, evaluate and effectively use that information to resolve an issue or problem in a range of media.
  4. Innovative and entrepreneurial: Graduates should possess a strong drive and leaning towards the creation and/or adaptation of new ideas and products, with the intention of creating new and sustained economic value.
  5. Globally aware and well-grounded in his/her regional identity: Graduates must be aware of their environment so that they are prepared for any eventuality that may affect their future or the environment of which they are part. They must be aware of global events and be knowledgeable and open minded and willing to contribute to political, social, economic, environmental and cultural issues; nationally, regionally and globally.
  6. Socially, culturally and environmentally responsible: Graduates must be able to acknowledge the social, cultural and environmental implications of their actions and be guided accordingly. He/she should recognise social justice issues with particular reference, but not limited, to his/her discipline and professional area.
  7. Guided by strong ethical values: Graduates should champion respect, and understand and apply ethical practices and values personally and professionally in all aspects of life.