UTech, Jamaica Unveils Distinguished Visitors Mural

A new mural depicting photographs of distinguished visitors to the University of Technology, Jamaica over the life of the institution, was unveiled on October 23, 2019 at a special ceremony at the site of the impressive monument located at the entrance of the Shared Facilities Building, Papine Campus.

Some of the visits depicted on the mural have marked or coincided with significant historical milestones in the areas of academics, culture, sports and infrastructural developments. Among the visitors on the mural are notable global and local iconic personalities, including members of the British Royal Family, several Prime Ministers and Governors General of Jamaica, internationally renowned academics and cultural icons.

Mrs. Carla Seaga 

The mural was unveiled by Mrs. Carla Seaga, distinguished Jamaican and widow of late former Prime Minister and Chancellor, UTech, Jamaica, the Most Honourable Edward Seaga, ON, PC,  distinguished former Minister of Education and former Acting President of the University, Ambassador the Hon. Burchell Whiteman, OJ and University President, Professor Stephen Vasciannie, CD.

Mrs Seaga in her gracious remarks thanked the University for the kind invitation to participate in the ceremony which she said “celebrates the foundation of the University and the people who played a part in its development.”  Mrs. Seaga noted further with pride that, “my husband would have been truly pleased to know that his memory was captured on the University’s wall of honour.  I know that this would have meant a great deal to him because this institution, which he served, represents so much of what he treasured and to which he dedicated his life,” she said.

Ambassador the Honourable Burchell Whiteman, OJ

In his remarks, Ambassador Whiteman congratulated the University on its many achievements over its 61 year history, noting that “UTech has indeed been a magnet for the discerning - visitors from far and wide, the aspiring, the ambitious, and the appreciative.”  He added that “today’s event reminds us that UTech has always understood and valued the interconnectedness of things, the integration of knowledge and skills, the fusion of theory and practice.”  Ambassador Whiteman thanked the  University for recognizing the individuals depicted on the mural, whose names he said are signposts to the six decade journey of  the institution.  He expressed hope that “all those who enter this space and gaze upon the record of the years, be inspired to continue to build for the future.  May Excellence through Knowledge be always in our minds, touching our hearts and reflected in our work,” Ambassador Whiteman said.

The brief ceremony was chaired by Profess or Stephen Vasciannie who conceptualized and commissioned the mural.  He expressed gratitude to all persons who were responsible for its production.  He offered special thanks to the Graphic Artist, Mr. Ian Beckford; production team led by Mr Ivor Bennett, Marketing Unit; the Corporate Communications Unit; the Archives Unit in the Calvin McKain Library for their support in researching the photos, led by Mrs Caren Chambers-Cox and Lithographic Printers for printing the mural.  The President also thanked the Facilities Management Team led by Mrs. Genefa Hibbert for facilitating the mounting of the mural. 

The President also expressed appreciation to Mrs Seaga and Ambassador Whiteman for leading the unveiling.  He noted that the University continues to derive benefits from the wisdom and guidance of our late, beloved Chancellor and advised that the administration continues to seek ways of honoring him.  In that regard, Professor Vasciannie used the occasion to announce that at this year’s Graduation ceremony, the graduate with the highest GPA will be awarded the Edward Seaga Award for Academic Excellence.

 End.