The OUCIO’s vision is to be a unified IT team delivering excellent ICT services to enable an agile UWI. Its mission is to coordinate campus ICT teams into a cohesive university-wide unit, provide secure, integrated solutions, and enable digital transformation across UWI.

Achievements

One UWI Email and Microsoft 365 Rollout

The OUCIO completed the transition of all staff to the @ uwi.edu domain, marking a significant step in cross-campus collaboration. The rollout was supported by comprehensive training sessions, which increased staff readiness and skills in adopting Microsoft 365. The automation of the email assignment process, including duplicate resolution, was finalised. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) was widely promoted and implemented, enhancing security. A draft Microsoft 365 roadmap was presented to key University committees.

Cross-Campus Moodle (CCM)

Resource constraints were addressed through consultations with leadership and the presentation of a cost- sharing model, which received committee endorsement. Online exam procedures for high-stakes exams were developed, shared, and effectively implemented.

Cybersecurity Enhancements

Key initiatives included university-wide cybersecurity training for the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT), updating the Information Security Incident Response Procedure, and rolling out the SentinelOne Endpoint Detection and Response platform. These measures have strengthened the University’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

The OUCIO led discussions on transitioning to the Ellucian Banner Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, highlighting benefits and challenges, including affordability and resource requirements.

Efficiency Solutions

Leveraging Microsoft Power Apps, the OUCIO developed an Honorary Graduand Voting App to improve transparency and decision-making efficiency. Artificial Intelligence tools were introduced to automate reporting and other functions, significantly reducing development times.

Digital Transformation Initiatives

The OUCIO collaborated on CDB-funded digital transformation projects, playing critical roles in their implementation.

Zoom License Renewal

Negotiations with Zoom resulted in a 79.5% discount on the Zoom Workplace for Education Enterprise Plus package for 2 years, securing cost-effective access to essential collaboration tools.

Challenges and Risks

The OUCIO continues to advocate for a shared operating model across HR, Bursary, and ICT teams to fully realise the benefits of One UWI solutions. Persistent issues like delayed payments for critical ICT licenses, including Ellucian Banner and Oracle maintenance, pose risks to system support and stability.

Conclusion

The reporting period was marked by significant IT modernisation, enhanced security, and cross-campus collaboration, despite ongoing resource and operational challenges. The OUCIO remains committed to advancing digital transformation and supporting the University’s strategic objectives.