The University of the West Indies (The UWI) marked its 75th anniversary in 2023, with the St. Augustine Campus (UWI STA) actively participating in various celebratory events for staff and students.

The University of the West Indies (The UWI) marked its 75th anniversary in 2023, with the St. Augustine Campus (UWI STA) actively participating in various celebratory events for staff and students. Central to these activities was a striking human formation, symbolising unity and community engagement, which drones captured from the air. Throughout the year, UWI STA focused on enhancing its community connections while addressing the challenges of an evolving society, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Significant strides were made towards achieving the Triple A Strategic Objectives, which emphasize self-sustenance and revenue generation. This was accomplished by harnessing transformative research to create innovative products and programmes. There was a notable emphasis on entrepreneurial initiatives, fostering collaborations with the public and private sectors, and generating revenue through various commercial projects addressing pertinent societal issues. UWI STA also expanded its outreach efforts to establish partnerships, engage alumni, attract sponsorships, and increase enrolment, particularly among underserved communities.

Unlocking the revenue potential of research and other capabilities has been a primary focus for UWI STA. Over the past year, the Campus Implementation Committee’s (CIC) Shark Tank initiative served as a strategic platform for assessing and monitoring revenue- generating projects. This mechanism has not only guided these initiatives but also built the capacity of the senior leadership team, celebrating the contributions of dedicated staff members through awards and recognition.

ENTREPRENEURIAL AND REVENUE GENERATION PROJECTS

UWI STA has been active in commercialising its research through various projects, leading to notable revenue- generating initiatives:

Humankind Studios

The Faculty of Humanities and Education launched Humankind Studios (HKS), a full-service production company that utilises advanced technology to foster human connections. HKS offers multimedia services, including live streaming and event coverage, and has already begun earning profits with clients like Arrive Alive, a local NGO.

UWI Chocolates and Cocoa Products

Building on Trinidad and Tobago’s reputation for world- class cocoa, the UWI Fine Cocoa Products Ltd. has produced high-value cocoa and chocolate products through its Cocoa Research Centre (CRC), which is globally recognised as the leading centre for cocoa research. Although a large-scale commercial factory will open soon pending licensing, revenue generation has continued through production in a pilot facility, contributing to the local economy.

UWI Seal-It Ltd

This initiative has addressed the local need for quality construction materials by developing premium asphalt-based coatings for tropical climates. UWI Seal-It Ltd launched operations during the review period, securing multiple public and private contracts while generating steady income from product sales and construction projects. Their proactive approach included demonstrating products to the Ministry of Education and undertaking free repairs for local schools, showcasing their community involvement.

Law Access Project

In collaboration with the Global Campus, the Faculty of Law initiated the Law Access Project. Alongside a suite of climate studies courses, the project offered a range of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) and short courses aimed at upskilling working professionals. The programme proved financially successful, bringing in considerable income.

Sport Facilities Rentals

The Faculty of Sport exceeded its revenue targets by renting out its sports facilities and offering gym subscriptions, demonstrating the potential for generating income through recreational services.

OCP MPA Public Servant Training Project

The Office of the Campus Principal rolled out the Ministry of Planning (MPA) Training Programme for public servants, projected to yield around TT$25,740,000 in revenue over three years. In the initial phase of this project, the campus earned approximately nine million dollars.

Revenue Earning Seminars, Workshops, and CPEs

Several faculties, such as the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Faculty of Science and Technology, organised workshops, seminars, and CPE offerings to earn revenue. These initiatives catered to public needs while adhering to a commercial framework, further diversifying revenue streams.

Through these entrepreneurial endeavours and projects, UWI STA advanced its revenue generation goals and reinforced its commitment to addressing societal needs and promoting sustainable development. The campus’s proactive approach to fostering innovation, collaboration, and community engagement positions it well for future challenges and opportunities, ensuring it remains a dominant educational institution in the region and beyond. The75th anniversary served as both a celebration of past achievements and a launching pad for future growth and development, reflecting UWI STA’s resilience and adaptability in the face of a changing global landscape.

Overall, the UWI St. Augustine Campus continues to exemplify a commitment to educational excellence, community service, and sustainable practices through its innovative projects and collaborations, making significant strides toward self-sustainability and social impact.