UTech, Ja Graduation 2020

H ISTORY T he University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Ja.) dates its beginning from 1958, originally as the Jamaica Insti- tute of Technology. In 1959 the name of the institution was changed to the College of Arts, Science and Technology and it became incorporated in the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) Scheme of 1959. This was validated by an ACT of Parliament in 1964. In 1986, the CAST Scheme was revised in order to make the College a degree-granting institution, and the College became legally empowered to conduct affairs under a governing Council and Academic Board. The institution was formally accorded University status on September 1, 1995 as the University of Technology, Jamaica. The history of the institution is intimately connected with the social and economic development of Jamaica. From just over 50 students and four programmes in 1958, UTech Ja. has grown to become Jamaica’s premier national institution with a student population of over 12,000. It now offers more than 100 programmes at the certifi- cate, diploma and degree levels through its three colleges and five faculties. The Uni- versity has further expanded access to its programme offerings to meet the demands of business and industry by establishing campuses and satellite locations across Jamaica. In addition, several programmes are franchised through partnership with community colleges, and most pro- grammes are associated with national and international professional umbrella organisations. Syllabuses are modeled on the English polytechnic system, with emphasis on flex- ibility of approach, work-based, experien- tial learning and professional linkages facilitated through co-operative work based programmes. Flexibility in the Uni- versity’s academic programmes is reflected in the various modes of course delivery, which include the establishment of a Semesterised mode of delivery introduced in academic year 1999/2000 and further adjusted and piloted in 2009–2010. The University’s mandate is reflected in its mission – “To positively impact Jamaica and the wider Caribbean through high quality learning opportunities, research and value added solutions to gov- ernment, industry and communities. “As such, the University’s three core pillars are teaching, research and community service. The University Council of Jamaica (UCJ) has registered UTech, Ja. as a tertiary institu- tion. The University was granted Institu- tional Accreditation effective February 2018. When institutional accreditation is granted, the programmes are recognized by the UCJ and local and international stakeholders, as meeting minimum acceptable standards. The University is committed to excellence in all aspects of its course of study offer- ings. By submitting its courses of study to accrediting bodies for review and accredi- tation, the University ensures that its programmes are of high quality and international standard. 5 Introduction to the University