The UWI has proven to be resilient and relevant over its 75 years of service to the Caribbean, said Professor Sir Hilary Beckles at the AFUWI Gala in New York on April 20, 2023 — a day proclaimed “The UWI Day” by New York’s Mayor Eric Adams.

Vice-Chancellor Beckles said that the past two years were particularly significant, when the University rose up and survived the COVID-19 pandemic. “The University was able to roll up its sleeves and get work done,” he expanded. He singled out for special mention The UWI’s medical graduates worldwide, whether in hospitals, on health councils or committees, who saved thousands of lives.

Describing The UWI today as a multimode university, Vice-Chancellor Beckles reiterated its commitment to helping the people of the Caribbean get access to a university education to help make their contribution to humanity.

He ended by thanking the AFUWI Legacy Award recipients and the event’s sponsors, who have become part of the UWI family.