Celebrating 70 Years of Service, 70 Years of Leadership

In 2018, we proudly celebrate our evolution from a university college situated at Mona with 33 medical students, to an internationally respected regional university with near 50,000 students.

Now with four campuses—at Mona, Jamaica, at St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, at Cave Hill, Barbados, and the Open Campus, with sites throughout the region—the University has demonstrated its relevance and illustrated its quality as a site of excellence in the Caribbean.

Our ethical mandate to be accessible to all who meet its requirements has won the respect of sister universities globally, enabling us to establish partnering centres in North America, Asia, and Africa. Our alumni, found in all areas of public life, have brought us tremendous honour through their regional and global achievements and contributions.

New Chancellor, Robert Bermudez will preside over the 70th anniversary activities. New Chancellor, Robert Bermudez will preside over the 70th anniversary activities.

In commemorating our 70th Anniversary milestone, we will pay tribute to our students, faculty, administrators, alumni, governments, and partners in the public and private sector in the region and across the Caribbean and diaspora who have contributed to The UWI's legacy.

A central planning committee convened under the chairmanship of the University Registrar, Mr. C. William Iton with supporting campus planning committees operational at each campus level has planned a year-long calendar of celebratory events. It officially began with an Interfaith Service at The UWI Chapel, Mona, Jamaica on Sunday, January 7, 2018.

In an initiative specifically targeted towards engaging and connecting with alumni—but open to all stakeholders—the University will host a week of activities called Chancellor's Week from July 22-29, 2018.

We expect to welcome thousands from the proud UWI family at the Mona Campus in Jamaica. The Chancellors Week celebrations kick off with a gala reception followed by a variety of academic and social events, with something for everyone.

70th Anniversary Commemorative logo


A special logo was designed in commemoration of The UWI's 70th anniversary, for use throughout 2018. It was selected through a logo design competition extended to University staff, students and alumni. A panel of judges reviewed and deliberated over 80 entries from which the design by alumnus, Mr. Kemal Brown, emerged as the winner.

The logo features the pelican - an enduring symbol of The UWI - illustrating that the University has indeed soared in its achievements since its humble beginnings 70 years ago. It is also representative of an ongoing journey, and The UWI's commitment to sustained public service, leadership, research and institutional excellence to propel the people of the region along a progressive and prosperous path.