Vol. 4, Issues 5 and 6 January – March 2022 University of Technology, Jamaica Thirteen students, from across Colleges and Faculties were formally welcomed as the third cohort of new UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassadors on March 3, 2022 at an induction ceremony held at the Papine Campus. The UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassadors programme, which is led by the Marketing Unit, Advancement Division, was launched in 2019. Student Ambassadors are nominated by lecturers, University staff members or peers and selected following a round of interviews. The student ambassadors participate in promotional campaigns and University events and activities, as well as recruitment activities on and off campus, including campus tours and school visits. Student Ambassadors also feature in marketing and promotional campaigns, and are expected to demonstrate a high level of discipline, be good communicators, and be active members in clubs, societies, and volunteer service. As positive youth leaders, student ambassadors also promote the values of the University, help to build its brand and enrich its impact on the community. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, praised the positive impact the Student Ambassador Programme has had on the University’s image and the student body, indicating that “the programme continues to help to advance well-rounded students through opportunities for personal and professional development, networking and giving back to the Institution through volunteer New Student Ambassadors Inducted Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Professor Colin Gyles (centre), Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica and other University officers: Mr. Hector Wheeler (right), AVP, Advancement, Mr. Ivor Bennett, Director, Marketing Unit and Mr. Taje James, Marketing Assistant share a group photograph with newly inducted UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassadors at the Induction Ceremony held on March 3, 2022 at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. Student Ambassadors (from left) are Gianna-Siri Roberts, Donnielle Robe, Suen Chang, Jason Baker, Rodrina Daley, Lilli-Ann Lewin, Danika Bourg, Nicole Williams, Kerryan Hall, Shania Edwards and Hayden Collins. Absent are Student Ambassadors Tazeel Walker and Veneisha Reid. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica presented the Instruments of Induction to Student Ambassadors during the induction ceremony. Danika Bourg, Faculty of Law, proudly collects her Instruments. service.” He urged the new inductees to adopt and live the University’s Core Values of Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, Excellence, Innovation and Team Work (RAISE IT), even as they work to promote them among others in their new role as student leaders.
Editorial Team Executive Editor Hector Wheeler Editor/Writer Michelle Beckford Editorial Assistant/Writer Jolyn Gayle Photography IMS, Calvin McKain Library Corporate Communications Unit Design & Layout Ian Beckford JAN - MAR 2022 INSIDE THIS ISSUE UTech, Jamaica Voices Voices Magazine is a publication of the Corporate Communications Unit, University of Technology, Jamaica. Please send comments, feedback and news items to: The Editor Michelle A. Beckford Corporate Communications Unit Advancement Division University of Technology, Jamaica 237 Old Hope Road Kingston, Jamaica Tel: (876) 970-5299 Fax: (876) 970-2225 Ext: 2299/2888 Email: corporatecomm@utech.edu.jm/mbeckford@utech.edu.jm Website: www.utechjamaica.edu.jm Vol. 4, Issue 5 and 6 Medija Traditions Wins 9th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Student Voices 12 3 Nursing Students Earn Their Stripes at 12th Annual Striping Ceremony 4 Regional hydrophone survey of marine mammals 8
3 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Students of the College of Business and Management (l-r) Shantay Siddo, Shasantay Jennings and Divontte Dennis of Team Medija Traditions during their virtual presentation at the finals of the 9th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition held on Thursday, February 18, 2021 via Zoom. Budding student entrepreneurs of the team Medija Traditions, whose innovation promises to effectively sooth and heal minor skin wounds, impressed the judges in emerging winners at the finals of the 9th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition, hosted by the Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), on February 18, 2022, via Zoom. The winning team comprising College of Business and Management (COBAM) students Shantay Siddo, Shasantay Jennings and Divontte Dennis topped the pool of six final teams, walking away with the grand prize of $400,000.00, after presenting their business model for a product that they described as a plant-based solution, utilizing the properties of natural remedies packaged in an easy-to-use form. Second place winners were team Augmented with group members Tavoy Barrett, COBAM and Shanoy Smith, FELS. Their innovation involves inventive advertising using augmented reality that blends game technology with marketing, advertising and sales techniques. The innovation copped the group the cash prize of $200,000.00. Kashlon Palmer and Sanchia Palmer of the School of Computing and Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FENC) copped third place, with a prize of $100,000.00, for their presentation of a mobile wallet solution, designed to make transferring money via mobile devices easier. Fourth place and cash prize of $50,000.00 was awarded to team Tutoring One-On-One, comprising FELS students TwaeJordan Rose, Ashley Lawrence and Brenda Johnson who developed a platform to connect teachers and tutors with students seeking tutoring services. Rounding out the six finalists were 5th and 6th place teams Global Institute & Certification and Ubiqui Agro Grow, respectively. Global Institute & Certification, FELS students, Sobrina Davis, Thea May and Abigail Cleary created a platform to offer skills training and development, while Ubiqui Agro Grow, COBAM students Jelani Kidd, Shanelle Wray and Anderica Green developed an innovative way of marketing agricultural produce. Both teams were presented with $15,000.00. Participants in the competition are required to present innovative, sustainable and avant-garde solutions to problems, while utilizing a business model canvas to demonstrate their key partners and activities, value propositions, customer relationships, as well as revenue streams and cost structure. Teams are assessed on the validation of their hypothesis and assumptions, product development and presentation skills. Mr. Nigel Cooper, Head, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL) in his welcome, indicated that the Business Model Competition continues in its thrust to mold “young entrepreneurs into real life, long-term entrepreneurs.” He applauded the students, noting that they “have sweat and toiled to come up with these ventures” which has resulted in an experience that was both challenging and rewarding for them. In underscoring the importance of the competition, Mr. Cooper pointed to the Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students Survey that is conducted in over 50 countries among university students, which Cont’d on page 4 Medija Traditions Wins 9th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition with Innovative Wound Healing Product
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 4 Cont’d from page 3...Medija Traditions Wins 9th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition University of Technology, Jamaica through its Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON), College of Health Sciences (COHS), celebrated its nursing and midwifery students at the 12th staging of the Annual Striping Ceremony on March 24, 2022. The ceremony, held via Zoom, was themed “Nursing & Midwifery Students Champion of the COVID-19 Pandemic Soaring to new Heights” and acknowledged the achievements of nursing and midwifery students who have been awarded the symbolic stripes, which signify that they have satisfied the academic and professional requirements of their respective levels of study and have displayed good behaviour and attitude towards their profession. Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, COHS, in congratulating the nursing and midwifery students, praised them for facing and conquering the challenges of the pandemic by pivoting to online learning, and adapting to the fluctuating requirements of completing clinical and practical assessments. “Today is testament to your resilience and fortitude,” she noted, Nursing Students Earn Their Stripes at 12th Annual Striping Ceremony University of Technology, Jamaica Nursing and Midwifery students who achieved the highest GPA of their cohort in the Academic Year 2020/2021 display their trophies during a special presentation at the UTech, Jamaica Western Campus preceding the Annual Striping ceremony for Nursing and Midwifery students held via Zoom on Thursday, March 24, 2022. Front row, from left, are Bachelor of Science in Midwifery students Kayjanae Hines, 2nd Year, Ladane Thompson, 4th Year, Danessia Williams-Mellis, 2nd Year; Bachelor Science in Nursing students Trisha Goodlitt, 3rd Year, and Zaviah Ramlaal, 4th Year. Back row, from left, are Bachelor of Science in Midwifery students Shenelle Cope, 3rd Year, and Tishana Swaby-Clarke, 3rd Year and Bachelor of Nursing student Kereisha Smith-Morris, 3rd Year. Celebrating with the students, from left are Mrs. Keron JonesFraser, Acting Head, Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON), College of Health Sciences (COHS), Mr. Abubakar Usman, Programme Director, CSON, and Mrs. Marti McLeod, Programme Leader, BSc. Midwifery, UTech, Jamaica Western Campus. in 2021 indicated that 32% of university students plan to be entrepreneurs. He further noted that “this is also in alignment to our own studies at UTech, Jamaica that says that 49% of our students have an innovation that can be commercialized.” The Head of School also thanked sponsors, the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation and the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), as well as the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) for their special endorsement of the UTech, Jamaica BMC. Dr. Carol Nathan, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies (FELS) and UTech, Ja BMC Chairperson, noted that the vision of the Business Model Competition is “to foster and facilitate strong entrepreneurial pursuits within the student body, as many excellent ideas and projects come from our students.” She pointed out that the competitive platform also provides students with training, as well as the opportunity to create linkages within the local and international business market. The top four teams from the competition will go on to the National Business Model Competition where they will face teams from The University of the West Indies, University of the Commonwealth Caribbean, the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and the Northern Caribbean University. Cont’d on page 5
5 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Cont’d from page 4...Nursing Students Earn Their Stripes at 12th Annual Striping Ceremony Nursing and Midwifery students display the newly affixed stripes on their sleeves at the Caribbean School of Nursing, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus during a special presentation at the which their stripes were presented, preceding the Annual Striping ceremony. From left are Saskia Francis, 1st Year, BSc. in Nursing, Danielle Buggam, 2nd Year, BSc. in Nursing, Leandra Newman, 3rd Year, BSc. in Midwifery and Kenyatta Walker, 4th Year, BSc. in Nursing. Nursing and Midwifery students beam as they display trophies for the highest GPA among their cohort for the Academic Year 2020/2021 at the Caribbean School of Nursing, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus at a special presentation preceding the Annual Striping ceremony held via Zoom on Thursday, March 24, 2022. From left are Charlene Atkins-Israel; 1st Year, BSc. in Nursing, Amoya Chambers, 2nd Year, BSc in Nursing and J’Nae Allen, 3rd Year, BSc. in Nursing. highlighting that a large percentage of students on the Dean’s List of the College each year are CSON students. She encouraged students to continue to strive for distinction, and also congratulated the administration of CSON, including Acting Head of School, Mrs. Keron Jones-Fraser and her team, for their continued support of students and commitment to excellence. Mrs. Keron Jones-Fraser, Acting Head, CSON in her remarks, shared that the School has grown from strength to strength over the last academic year, with over 800 students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the Bachelor of Science in Midwifery courses of study, and an outstanding 78 on the College’s Dean’s List. She noted that several graduates, at the 2021 graduation ceremony, received first-class honours degrees, including President’s Pin awardee Stephanie Taylor. Mrs. Jones-Fraser also noted that CSON continues to partner with internal and external agencies to facilitate scholarships and donations for students who are excelling in their studies, and are in need of assistance. “We are committed to continuing to prepare nurses, midwives and health care professionals for national and international practice at the highest standard,” she affirmed, while reiterating the school’s commitment to innovation and accountability. Guest speaker, Major Petrona Campbell, Acting Director of Health Sector Core, Jamaica Defense Force (JDF), had many words of encouragement for Nursing and Midwifery students, and charged them to be bold in making decision; to not be afraid to ask questions; and to go above and beyond the call of duty. Congratulatory remarks were also delivered by Dr. Haldane Johnson, Deputy President and Miss Marion Brown, VP and University Registrar. Greetings were also received from Mrs. Jillian Mason Quarry, Deputy Chief Nurse, representing Mrs. Patricia Ingram Martin Chief Nursing Officer, Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) and Mrs. Sharon Banbury-Edwards, 1st Vice President, Jamaica Midwives’ Association. Mrs. Derecka Jones, Lecturer, COHS, served as moderator.
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 6 University of Technology, Jamaica, through its Division of Student Services and Registry, hosted the 28th staging of the annual Career and Job Placement Fair, from March 9 to 11, 2022. Themed ‘Advancing into the World of Work’, the annual event, which was held virtually via the Hopin platform, provided an opportunity for final year students to transition into their careers through networking with companies and organisations. The three-day event featured sessions on employability skills, networking and interviews for students seeking employment. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica in his welcome at the opening ceremony on March 9, 2022, thanked the Division of Student Services and Registry for its successful efforts in transitioning the signature event to the virtual space, and also had high commendation for the over forty companies and organizations that partnered with the University for the Career Fair. “We thank all participating companies for your continued interest in UTech, Jamaica and I assure you that you have come to the right place in search of human capital to increase productivity, innovation and efficiency in your organisations,” Professor Gyles noted, adding that the University continues to enjoy the reputation of producing work-ready, capable graduates. Professor Gyles also reiterated UTech, Jamaica’s commitment to its students, citing the continued investment in fostering “a holistic, student-centred environment”, which is bolstered by academic rigour, a hands-on, practical approach to learning, the infusion of critical thinking, entrepreneurship and innovation into the curriculum and the exposure to mandatory community service as a prerequisite to graduation. “Additionally,” he noted, “our students benefit from a structured Cooperative Education Internship programme, which helps to give them a sense of the real world of work.” Greetings were received fromMs. Marion Brown, Vice President and University Registrar who underscored the value of partnerships with industry players which enabled the successful staging of the annual event. Also bringing greetings were Ms. Sophia McIntosh, Western Campus Coordinator and UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union President, Ms. Robyn Murray, who had high commendation for the University’s administration for its commitment to students, demonstrated through the staging of the annual event amidst the “unprecedented challenging times” of the pandemic.” She also expressed appreciation to the participating organisations and companies “for recognising that the next generation of professionals are eager and ready to advance to the world of work.” To her fellow students, she advised, “as aspiring young professionals, it is our responsibility to ensure that we prepare ourselves accordingly and appropriately,” adding the dynamics of the workplace have changed, and new creative and innovative technological solutions are now in high demand. “I encourage you to use this as an opportunity to be multidimensional; learn new skills, strengthen the pre-existing ones, rebrand yourselves, and make yourselves an asset. Sponsor, Ms. Melissa Reveiro, Talent Manager, Nestle (Anglo-Dutch Caribbean), in her remarks, noted that the company is proud to be partnering with University of Technology, Jamaica, as “youth initiatives are a major part of our strategic planning in Nestle throughout the world.” Ms. Reveiro also introduced the Nestle Youth Programme, which was launched in 2014 in response to “unemployment figures in the double digits,” which provides opportunities for young people to find employment. Ms. Reveiro explained that the programme is founded on four pillars; get hired, get skilled, get support and get more opportunities, and operates through offering opportunities for training, internships, and employment, by participating in job fairs, webinars and other events. “Since we have launched, we’ve hired over two hundred persons directly into our operations,” she shared, adding that the programme has also provided over three hundred persons with opportunities to gain additional skills across the Caribbean region. “We continue to be very committed to this partnership with UTech, Jamaica,” Ms. Reveiro noted, reiterating Nestle’s commitment to hiring and training young professionals and inviting students to take advantage of the opportunities for employment and internships. Mrs. Dorsett Gabbidon-Pottinger, Assistant Registrar, Student Services, who moved the Vote of Thanks, extended gratitude to members of the University Community, industry partners and sponsors for making the second virtual staging of the event a success. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to major sponsors Nestle, who she noted continue to engage with and hire University of Technology, Jamaica students. Annual Career and Job Placement Fair 2022
7 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica University of Technology, Jamaica, Western Campus, On March 4, 2022, hosted a virtual fourth staging of its Career Development and Labour Market Symposium, a precursor to the University’s annual Career and Job Placement Fair. Under the theme ‘Embracing Excellence in a Dynamic Economy’, Moderator and Assistant Registrar, Western Campus, Ms. Antoinette Smith explained that the symposium aimed to foster students’ professional development and engagement with industry professionals. The day’s events featured three main segments, namely focusing on a Celebration of Excellence, Special Presentations and a Students’ Entrepreneurial Challenge. Ms. Sophia McIntosh, Western Campus Coordinator, in her remarks, underscored the University’s mission and vision of equipping students “with the skills necessary to take advantage of global opportunities” and by extension the Fourth Industrial Revolution. During the Celebration of Excellence segment, greetings were also delivered by Bishop the Hon. Conrad Pitkin, Custos of Montego Bay St. James who noted that, “a culture of excellence does not happen by chance,” and encouraged students to embrace their desires to excel. His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Mr. Leeroy Williams represented by the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Richard Vernon, encouraged students to be thinkers and doers as “the road to career development is a winding one, it takes much personal monitoring and evaluation to reach goals.” The highlight of segment one of the Career Development and Labour Market Symposium was a comprehensive presentation on ‘The Life and Legacy of the Hon. Gordon “Butch” Stewart,’ late Chairman of Sandals Resorts International (SRI) which was delivered through video and live presentations from executives of Sandals Resorts International, Mr Jeremy Jones, Director of Government and Corporate Services and Mr Ryan Mathew, Director of Human Resources. They both shared insights into valuable lessons learned from Butch Stewart, with Mr Jones noting “the lesson he [Butch] has taught us is that if you are dreaming big, never lose sight of that dream”. Mr. Mathew further expounded on SRI’s pillars of success including team member engagement, innovation, flexibility, love and customer focus, among others attributes. The SRI executives also encouraged students to “make their word their bond” and always follow through on commitments, while encouraging them to anticipate the expectations of consumers with the aim of exceeding those expectations. Segment 2 of the symposium featured special presentations from representatives of partnering entities, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports, Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ), Bureau of Gender Affairs and JMMB Bank. Students’ Entrepreneurial Challenge The symposium ended with the ‘Students’ Entrepreneurial Challenge’ sponsored by the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation. Greetings were offered by Mrs. Kim Mair, CEO JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation represented by Miss Tracey-Ann Myrie, Branch Operations Manager, JMMB Bank, Fairview, Montego Bay in which she commended entrants and encouraged them “to step out boldly…and with possibility thinking to turn each mishap into an opportunity to pivot.” Business models were showcased to a panel of judges by budding student entrepreneurs and finalists Miss Chantelle Young, Faculty of Law - Paralegal Fix, Mrs Shanae Pink- Blake, Caribbean School of Nursing, with her entrepreneurial idea Clever Little Minds and Miss Cadyne Graham, School of Business Administration, with her business model for Braids by Cad. From the sponsor’s commitment of $100,000.00, the consolation award of $10,000.00 went to Mrs Pink-Blake and 2nd place award of $35,000.00 to Miss Young. With the highest point standing, the 1st place prize of $55,000 and Western Campus Students’ Entrepreneurial Challenge Trophy went to Miss Graham of Braid By Cads. Western Campus Hosts Career Development and Labour Market Symposium Ms. Antoinette Smith, Assistant Registrar, Western Campus welcomes students and participants at the UTech, Ja, Western Campus’ Career Development and Labour Market Symposium on March 4, 2022 held via the Zoom platform. Students’ Entrepreneurial Challenge participants (l-r) Mis Chantelle Young, Paralegal Fix, Mrs Shanae Pink-Blake, Clever Little Minds and Miss Cadyne Graham, Braids by Cad
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 8 Ms. Christine O’Sullivan, Principal Investigator / Senior Lecturer, and Dr. Andrew Lamm, Associate Professor, Faculty of Science and Sport (FOSS) recently completed the Jamaican segment of a Caribbean-wide survey of marine mammals. The project, initiated by the CaribbeanMarine Mammal Preservation Network (CARI’MAM) and the University of Toulon in France was implemented in Anguilla, Aruba, Bahamas, Bermuda, Bonaire, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, St. Barthélemy, St. Martin, and Sint Eustatius. The project was designed to increase regional knowledge on the types of marine mammal species found, and their distribution, in Caribbean waters. In Jamaica, a hydrophone (underwater microphone) was deployed five times in Discovery Bay, St. Ann (between February and November 2021), in collaboration with The UWI’s Discovery Bay Marine Lab and Yardie Environmental Conservationists Ltd. The data was then retrieved and sent to the University of Toulon in France for analysis. This information is used to identify areas for additional research and critical habitat areas that may need to be protected. The hydrophone was loaned to UTech, Ja. by CARI’MAM, with funding for the implementation of the project provided by UTech Jamaica’s Research Development Fund. Cont’d on page 9 RESEARCH BRIEFS Professor Fitzroy Henry, Professor of Public Health Nutrition College of Health Sciences Jaedon Lawe (Yardie Environmental Conversation Ltd.), Christine O’Sullivan (UTech Ja.), Llewellyn Meggs (Yardie Environmental Conversation Ltd.), Camilo Trench and O’neil Holder (The UWI, Discovery Bay Marine Lab) Credit: Anna-Kae West Co-funded by the UTech, Jamaica Research Development Fund (RDF), this study aimed at examining the gap between food imports and local production and the health risk posed by these trading patterns. Additionally, it aimed to identify opportunities to promote nutrition and health within this food system. The study shows that food and health are intrinsically linked. In the absence of cheap local alternatives, food imports are conspicuous in the low-cost food basket and therefore a friend to low-income households. In terms of promoting public health, food imports are a foe as they dominate the health-retarding food groups such as fats and oils, foods from animals, and sugars. Copies of the report will be made available to relevant stakeholders, including government, private sector companies, and philanthropic organizations. Are Food Imports A Friend Or Foe To Food Security And Public Health In Jamaica?” Regional hydrophone survey of marine mammals
9 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Miss Elecia Bethune, Lecturer, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management co-authored a journal article: “Real time response (RTR): Conceptualizing a smart systems approach to destination resilience” published in the Journal of Destination Marketing and Management. The article introduces Real Time Response (RTR) as a smart systems approach to advancing destination resilience offering a conceptual framework that synthesizes knowledge and develops the emerging body of work on Destination Resilience. Real time response (RTR): Conceptualizing a smart systems approach to destination resilience - ScienceDirect College of Health Sciences academic staff , Dr. Rose MVictory Evans, Dr. Lisa Bromfield and Dr. Peta-Gaye L Thomas Brown published a research paper titled “An investigation of knowledge, attitude, and practice of community pharmacists toward pharmaceutical care in private community pharmacies in Jamaica” in the Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research Volume 20 Number 12 December 2021. The purpose of the study was to determine community pharmacists’ knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards pharmaceutical care (PC) and identify significant barriers to its provision in Jamaica. Smart Systems Approach to Destination Resilience Investigation on Community Pharmaceutical Care Cont’d from page 9...RESEARCH BRIEFS (L-R) Dr. Rose M Victory Evans, Dr. Lisa E Bromfield and Dr. Peta-Gaye L Thomas Brown Miss Elecia Bethune, Lecturer, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 10 University of Technology, Jamaica, through its Technology Innovation Centre (TIC) has partnered with the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO), with the support of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to develop a Technology and Innovation Support Centre (TISC) to assist Jamaican patent holders who are seeking to commercialize their products. With this strategic partnership, the TIC, which was established in 2002 at the University’s Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL), will take another step in advancing its mission of increasing economic activities in Jamaica and the Caribbean through promoting entrepreneurship by offering world class knowledge and development, technological and business support services. Through the TISC, patent holders who have filed patents over the last three to five years at the JIPO, will be offered assistance with seeking funding from grant funding agencies through the TIC’s Small Business Development Centre. Additionally, the TISC will conduct patent feasibility for commercialization sessions, facilitate training seminars for patent holders and assist with public relations and communication to promote patent holders’ products. The TISC will also facilitate access to technical information to strengthen innovation, inventions, intellectual property (IP) registration and commercialization by individuals and organizations in the Jamaican economy. Mr. Nigel Cooper, Head, JDSEEL noted that the University is gratified to be able to provide Jamaican patent holders with a channel to pursue support to commercialize their inventions, adding that “many Jamaican patent holders He noted that the TISC, and the partnership with the JIPO is another avenue through which UTech, Jamaica is aiming to boost economic development and promote entrepreneurial endeavours in the country. Miss Lilyclaire Bellamy, Executive Director, JIPO noted that “the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office is pleased to support UTech, Jamaica and the TISC in their efforts to assist Jamaican patentees to commercialize their inventions. JIPO is committed to facilitating and empowering innovators to take advantage of opportunities that exist in the open market. Such initiatives will only strengthen the intellectual property ecosystem for MSMEs in Jamaica.” Persons who hold patent applications or patent grants at JIPO who are interested in this initiative are asked to contact JIPO at info@jipo.gov.jm or the Technology and Innovation Support Centre at UTech, Jamaica at ticreceptionist@utech.edu.jm or telephone 876-970-5505. The Small Business Development Centre is a joint project with the Jamaica Business Development Centre (JBDC) and the TIC “ to make quality business consulting services and education accessible to the MSME sector.” The Joan Duncan Trust has pledged an additional $ 4.8 Million dollars to support operations at the SBDC over the same two- year period. Professor Colin Gyles (first right), Acting President, accepts a symbolic cheque in the amount of $3M dollars from Mrs. Kim Mair (third left), CEO, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, presented in support of covering the cost of staff salary for a two-year period, commencing in January 2022, at the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) located at the Technology Innovation Centre (TIC), Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership (JDSEEL, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus . The cheque was presented on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at the TIC. Sharing in the occasion (from left) are Mrs. Andrea Bolton-Fyffe, Incubator Manager, TIC, Mr. Nigel Cooper, Head, JDSEEL, Ms Ranique Satchell, Administrative Officer, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation and Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, College of Business and Management. TIC’s Small Business Development Centre Receives Support from JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation UTech, Jamaica and JIPO Partner to Support Patent Holders
11 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica University of Technology, Jamaica on March 16, 2022 received $7.5 million in sponsorship from the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) and the Joan Duncan Trust in support of research to be undertaken by UTech, Jamaica researchers for the production and publication of the Global EntrepreneurshipMonitor (GEM) 2021 Jamaica Report.The contribution from the DBJ totaled $5M, while the Joan Duncan Trust provided sponsorship of $2.5M. The sponsorship cheques were handed over at a special ceremony hosted by the University at the Technology Innovation Centre, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership, Papine Campus. UTech, Jamaica has been participating in the annual Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) research project for Jamaica since 2005, through researchers in its College of Business and Management. GEM hosts the world’s largest standing study of global entrepreneurial activity and highlights emerging trends in economies. The GEM research consortium has been measuring entrepreneurial activity across the world in a comparable way since 1998. Professor Gyles noted that since 2005, the annual GEM Jamaica country reports produced by UTech, Jamaica have been “a useful reference in efforts aimed at enhancing the level of entrepreneurial activity in our country,” adding that the “GEM Jamaica reports have also been beneficial to academics and to entrepreneurs themselves in providing them with sound knowledge on making investment decisions about their entrepreneurial ventures. The Acting President underscored UTech, Jamaica’s commitment to conducting “high-impact, inter-disciplinary and applied research, like the GEM Jamaica research project. Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, College of Business and Management, in her remarks also expressed appreciation to the sponsors and reiterated the significance of research and having access to data-driven information for making informed decisions, particularly in the context of an ever rapidly changing global economy. Noting the profound value of the GEM Jamaica Report, Ms. Deborah Newland, General Manager, Strategic Services, DBJ in her remarks, spoke to the imperative for research in informing decision making and the “incredible advantages” of data in an increasingly complex, interconnected, fast paced world, adding that “the garnering and examination of information is one of the most critical components of our development as a people.” Mrs. Kim Mair, CEO, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, who represented the Joan Duncan Trust, stated that “The Joan Duncan Trust is proud to partner with University of Technology, Jamaica in supporting the execution of the 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) research project for Jamaica. In this way, we are fulfilling our commitment to support entrepreneurship, and the academic, economic and social framework that bolsters entrepreneurial pursuits locally, regionally and internationally. The Joan Duncan Trust understands that entrepreneurs are critical to the longterm health of our economy, as they assist in bringing innovation to market, expanding human welfare and building the communities in which they operate. It is our responsibility to form these partnerships, as links in the wider chain of society, and to play our part in supporting the recovery and growth of Jamaica, the region and the world.” Professor Colin Gyles (centre), Acting President, University of Technology, Jamaica accepts a cheque from Ms. Ms. Deborah Newland (3rd left), General Manager, Strategic Services, Development Bank of Jamaica, (DBJ) representing sponsorship of $5M in support of UTech, Jamaica’s production of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2021 Jamaica Report. The cheque was presented at a handing over ceremony held at the Technology Innovation Centre (TIC), UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. Sharing in the occasion (from left) are Mrs. Andrea Bolton-Fyffe, Incubator Manager, TIC, Mrs. Renay Folkes-Johnson, Manager, Research, Business Analytics and Policy, DBJ, Dr. Andrea Sutherland, Dean, College of Business and Management (COBAM), Mrs. Terry-Ann Gaynor-Clarke, Lecturer, COBAM and GEM, Jamaica Team Lead, and Mr Nigel Cooper, Head, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics and Leadership. UTech, Jamaica Receives Sponsorship from DBJ and the Joan Duncan Trust for GEM Jamaica Research Project
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 12 Being in the BACAT programme at UTech, Jamaica has opened my eyes to so many possibilities, so it is only right that I became a Student Ambassador, so I can point other students to those possibilities. It’s important to have guidance, especially for those students who don’t know what they want to become. The advice I would give to students is to get involved. Try to get involved in whatever you can, it makes you more marketable and it also makes you more experienced. I decided to be a Student Ambassador because I wanted to change the narrative of what people think UTech, Jamaica is like. My advice to prospective and current students would be to network. Networking is very important, and it helps you to figure out a lot of things. But don’t network selfishly; you must network with the intention of giving as well. I’m a strong believer in service and so when the call was made, I answered. I would say to my fellow students, lean into your support system. Believe in those interfaculty and interschool relationships that you have formed with your peers. No one understands the struggle that you’re going through more than they can. Believe that they will support you in your time of need. UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassador Newly inducted Student Ambassadors were asked “Why did you want to become a UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassador and what advice would you give to students about making the best of student life at the University?” Read on for their responses. I wanted to become a Student Ambassador because I do think that it’s important that students should project a level of pride or want to show off their school and advertise it in a way that makes people want to attend. I also wanted to get involved because I am not from Jamaica, I’m from Trinidad, and I didn’t know about my programme until somebody told me. I would advise students to get involved outside of your programme. Gianna-Siri Roberts Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, Faculty of The Built Environment Being a UTech, Jamaica Student Ambassador affords me the opportunity to interact more, to be more involved with my colleagues, to assist them throughout the journey of University and encourage them along the way. Also, this programme affords me the opportunity to reach out to the wider community in terms of encouraging and promoting the University in the best light possible. STUDENT VOICES Donnielle Robe Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Technology, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Danika Bourg Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law Rodrina Daley Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, Faculty of The Built Environment Jason Baker Bachelor of Laws, Faculty of Law
13 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica I wanted to become a Student Ambassador because I saw it as the perfect opportunity to represent my fellow students and prospective students and the University. UTech, Jamaica is a university that I take pride in, and I see this as a great opportunity to share the pride with others and to encourage prospective students to come and enjoy this pride. I would say to students to get involved, to network and to enjoy your experience. I wanted to become a Student Ambassador because of the positive experience that I had when I enrolled and am having now that I have been enrolled in my course of study. So I wanted to share that experience with other adult students so that they too may take advantage of learning in a friendly environment that is accommodating to the adult learner as well. The advice I would give to students, whether undergraduate or graduate student, is to make the most of your experience. Learning should do something for you and so as you embark on higher education engage in every aspect of learning that you can, whether it is formal, informal, or the hidden curriculum, engage in every aspect of learning and allow it to transform your life. I decided to accept the role of a Student Ambassador because student leadership has always been a staple in my student life. I feel like Student Ambassador is a perfect role to help let the voices of the students of UTech, Jamaica be heard and to also promote and advocate for the school and students themselves. The advice I would give to incoming students would be to learn proper time management and have a good work/student life balance. I wanted to be a Student Ambassador because I have always wanted to be involved. I enjoy the opportunity to give of my time. I believe that it’s a big thing to give back, to be able to impart your knowledge, your ideas and it’s something that is going to last a lifetime. I want to make my own mark at the school. I would advise students to get involved in clubs and events, and assist people because it’s going to be something that will be long lasting and life-long. As a Student Ambassador, I really want to bring to light what exactly UTech, Jamaica offers to students because I was completely lost when looking at university, and I want to help to engage other prospective students. I want to help teach them about what it means to be a UTech, Jamaica Knight and what benefits there are for students. One thing that I would encourage students to do throughout their university journey is just to take advantage of all the benefits that the University offers. There are so many things here provided by the University, by our affiliates, by so many companies or even graduates for students to take advantage and a lot of them are not being taken up. Kerryan Hall Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, College of Business and Management Nicole Williams PhD in Educational Leadership and Management, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Hayden Collins Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, Faculty of The Built Environment Suen Chang Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Technology, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies Lilli-Ann Lewin Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Technology, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies STUDENT VOICES
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 14 Members of University of Technology, Jamaica and the 1966 alumni cohort of the KPH Teaching Department display a tablet from teaching aids and medical supplies donated to the Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON), and the Kingston Public Hospital at a presentation hosted at the CSON Critical Care Lab, Papine Campus on January 3, 2022. Pictured from left are Mrs. Evadney Crooks and Mrs. Shirley Tomlinson, KPH Teaching Department alumni, Kimberlee McLean, 2nd year midwifery student, Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences and Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President. CSON received the generous donation of medical teaching aids from alumni of the 1966 cohort of nurses from the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) Teaching Department, an early predecessor to the nursing programme currently offered by the University. The items include a nursing mannequin, twenty-three tablets for students in need, two arms for venipuncture and other medical supplies. Also included in the donation were bed sheets designated for the Kingston Public Hospital. Facilitated through the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica and the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida, the donation will enhance teaching and learning for nursing and midwifery students at the University. Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON) students (from left) Kimberlee McLean, 2nd year midwifery, and Kadian Robinson, 3rd year nursing, pose for a photo with Professor Colin Gyles (left), Acting President and Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences following the presentation of scholarships from the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida to the two students on January 14, 2022 at a presentation at the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. The students were presented with a total of US$1,000 in scholarship, following selection based on their outstanding academic performance. Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, who made the presentations to the students, offered his congratulations and urged the two CSON students to continue to strive for excellence. He also expressed gratitude to the nursing practitioners in the Diaspora who continue to contribute to nation-building through their contributions to education. During the presentation, computer tablets donated by the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) Teaching Department, through the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida, in collaboration with the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica, were distributed to the University’s Colleges and Faculties. Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, COHS indicated that the computer tablets were earmarked for students in need, who have experienced difficulty with accessing online classes and teaching materials. DONATIONS IN SUPPORT OF TEACHING AND LEARNING CSON Receives Donation of Medical Teaching Aids Scholarships from Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida Caribbean School of Nursing (CSON) students (from left) Kimberlee McLean, 2nd year midwifery, and Kadian Robinson, 3rd year nursing, pose for a photo with Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President and Dr. Adella Campbell, Dean, College of Health Sciences (COHS) following the presentation of scholarships from the Jamaica Nurses Association of Florida to the two students on Friday, January 14, 2022 at a special presentation held at the Shared Facilities Building, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus.
15 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica School of Pharmacy students Raphaella Sommerville (2nd left), and Rolaina McKnight (2nd right), display digital tablets donated by the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica for students in need. Sharing the moment are (l-r) Mrs. Modupeola Abayomi, Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and member of the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica, Mrs. Tieca Harris Kidd, Programme Director, BSc. in Pharmaceutical Technology, Dr. Andrea Daly, Head, School of Pharmacy and Dr. Stephanie Mullings, Programme Director, Bachelor of Pharmacy during a presentation at the College of Health Sciences, UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus on February 25, 2022. D r. Christine Fray (left), Programme Director, Dietetics and Nutrition course of study, College of Health Sciences, hands over a digital tablet to 3rd year Dietetics and Nutrition student, Ms. Garvey Jones at a presentation on February 2, 2022 at the Papine Campus. The digital tablet was donated by the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica for a student in need. School of Pharmacy Students Receive Tablets Donated by the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica Dietetics and Nutrition Student Receives Digital Tablet Donated by the Kiwanis Club of Papine at UTech, Jamaica
VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica | January – March 2022 16 University of Technology, Jamaica students in need who benefit from the monthly allotment of groceries provided by the GraceKennedy (GK) Campus Connect Food Bank will now also be receiving fruits, thanks to a partnership between the Jamaica Producers (JP) Tropical Foods Limited and the Grace Kennedy Foundation. The first allocation of fruits, including bananas and pineapples, was presented to the Food Bank on March 23, 2022 at a the UTech, Jamaica Papine Campus. The GK Campus Connect Food Bank was established in 2019, and serves university students in need from UTech, Jamaica, The University of The West Indies, Mona, and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Pictured from left are Sujae Boswell, Business Development Manager, Grace Kennedy Limited, Mrs. Caroline Mahfood, CEO, Grace Kennedy Foundation, Dr. Haldane Johnson, Acting Deputy President, UTech, Jamaica, Ms. Gayon Douglas, Marketing Executive, JP Tropical Foods Limited and Ms. Daniellea Wadsworth, UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union President’s Assistant. University of Technology, Jamaica students who are beneficiaries of the GraceKennedy (GK) Campus Connect Food Bank can now look forward to a hot meal with their monthly allotment of groceries, thanks to a donation of lunch vouchers, totaling $1,000,000.00 donated by Restaurant Associates Limited, parent company of Burger King, Popeye’s and Little Caesars Pizza franchises in Jamaica. The gift was presented to the UTech, Jamaica Food Bank on March 24, 2022 at the University’s Papine Campus. The GK Campus Connect Food Bank was established in 2019 and serves university students in need from UTech, Jamaica, The University of The West Indies, Mona, and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. GK Campus Connect Food Bank at UTech, Jamaica Receives Fruitful Boost from JP Tropical Foods GK Campus Connect Food Bank at UTech, Jamaica Receives Donation from Restaurant Associates Limited L-R: Mr. Sujae Boswell, Business Development Manager, GraceKennedy Limited, Mrs. Caroline Mahfood, CEO, GraceKennedy, Miss Marion Brown, VP and University Registrar, Mrs. Sabrena McDonald Radcliffe, Head, Sales and Marketing, Restaurant Associates Limited, Miss Robyn Murray, UTech, Jamaica Students’ Union President and Mrs. Dorrset Gabbidon-Pottinger, Assistant Registrar, Student Services.
17 January – March 2022 | VOICES Bi-Monthly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica University of Technology, Jamaica officers display boxes of protective face masks which formed part of a donation of approximately 50,000 protective facial masks to the University by the National Health Fund, (NHF) during a special presentation by the Acting President to academic and administrative units on Friday, March 18, 2022 at the University’s Papine Campus. Pictured (from left) are Ms. Michelle Silvera, Acting Supervisor, Cynthia Shako Early Childhood Education and Day Care Centre, Mrs. Genefa Hibbert, Vice President and Chief Operations and Projects Officer, Professor Colin Gyles, Acting President, UTech, Jamaica, Ms. Marion Brown, Vice President and University Registrar and Mrs. Heather White, Manager, Health Services. The NHF donated the masks for distribution to staff and students at the University’s various campuses. Members of the Faculty of Law Students’ Executive Cabinet, as part of outreach activities for 2022, distributed fifty care packages along with cleaning and sanitation supplies to students at the Gospel Refuge Basic School on January 16, 2022. Tokens of appreciation were also given to the principal and staff. The packages, valued at approximately $150,000.00 in cash and kind, were made possible through contributions from students of the Faculty of Law, lecturers and external stakeholders. Each package contained bags, books, stationery, hand sanitizers, snacks and a small cash donation to assist parents with expenses. The project was initiated and coordinated by Kelsey Champagnie-Cha, Director of Outreach for the FOL Students’ Executive Cabinet, who explained that she was motivated to assist Gospel Refuge Basic School because of the difficulties being faced by the students and school administration in the worsening conditions precipitated by the pandemic. Masks from the National Health Fund (NHF) Faculty of Law Students Donate to Basic School Camille Dixon, Faculty of Law (FOL) Students’ Executive Cabinet Assistant to the President, interacts with a student of Gospel Refuge Basic School during a donation of care packages by the FOL Students’ Executive Cabinet on January 16, 2022.
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