During the 2024/2025 academic year, University Marketing & Communications (U-M&C) continued to be a lean, dynamic and streamlined unit within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, advancing the “One UWI” philosophy and enhancing the University’s regional and global strategic positioning. Operating as a centralised hub, U-M&C played a pivotal role in supporting system-wide priorities, directly aligning its efforts with the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership agenda and significantly contributing to The UWI’s growing reputation.

Elevating Global Visibility and Reputation

U-M&C’s sustained focus on global media leadership resulted in 23,400 media mentions, a notable 14.9% increase over the previous year. The coverage spanned broadcast and print media across the Caribbean, North America, and the UK, reinforcing The UWI’s credibility and influence. With skilful media management, most coverage maintained positive or neutral sentiment. Strategic partnerships with editorial outlets and influencers further extended the reach of key institutional priorities, ensuring the University’s accomplishments were consistently highlighted to regional and international audiences.

Strategic Storytelling and Stakeholder Engagement

U-M&C led the creation and dissemination of the Vice-Chancellor’s Annual Report (2023/2024) and the special report “Journey to the Top,” which celebrated the successful execution of the Triple A Strategic Plan and The UWI’s rise to the top 5% of global universities. Embracing a digital-first approach, the reports garnered more than 1,600 views, reflecting enhanced stakeholder engagement and transparency.

Showcasing Academic Excellence

A unified communications and branding strategy for 15 graduation ceremonies across five campuses further illustrated U-M&C’s integrative approach. The “One UWI” framework resulted in over 145,000 unique viewers on UWItv platforms, more than 40 media stories, and heightened visibility for academic achievements, honorary degrees, and University leadership. These efforts reinforced alumni relations and strengthened public trust.

Driving Innovation and Transformation

U-M&C spearheaded the successful launch of the International School for Development Justice (ISDJ), overseeing brand development, interim visual identity, website launch, marketing collateral, and events. The Office also led communications for the University’s digital transformation, particularly the migration to Microsoft 365 and the implementation of a unified UWI. EDU email platform. Through coordinated messaging, training, and a dedicated microsite, U-M&C facilitated a seamless transition, supporting institutional coherence aligned with “One UWI.”

Highlighting Leadership in Artificial Intelligence

The 2024 and 2025 Five Islands AI Conferences showcased U-M&C’s expertise in integrated marketing and communications. By leveraging University and regional media partnerships, the team executed a multi-territory digital campaign and on-site support, successfully positioning The UWI as a regional leader in artificial intelligence and innovation.

Strengthening Governance, Quality, and Institutional Intelligence

U-M&C played a vital role in promoting student and staff surveys, achieving record participation of over 5000 completed surveys and over 2100 student comments, which generated actionable insights. The launch of the UWI Data Protection website further demonstrated U-M&C’s commitment to compliance and global best practices. The Office also contributed its expertise across numerous University committees, advancing governance, continuing and professional education, risk management, quality assurance, digital transformation, gender mainstreaming, and ceremonial protocols.

Conclusion

U-M&C’s strategic initiatives and operational excellence in 2024/2025 significantly advanced The UWI’s visibility, reputation, and institutional effectiveness, aligning with the highest professional standards and the University’s mission of regional and global leadership.