Dr. Kevin Brown, President, UTech, Jamaica, expressed immense pride in the launch of the university's new school, describing it as a historic milestone with a forward-thinking vision. He contextualized UTechOpen within the framework of his RESET transformational model, which aims to make the institution more research-driven, expand access, adopt a studentcentered approach, emphasize entrepreneurial endeavours, and be technology focused. He highlighted the importance of upskilling and lifelong learning, noting that UTechOpen will champion these values. He expressed, “today we are launching a school with a wider, more contemporary remit, a scope that’s relevant to not just Jamaica but where the world is going in respect to workforce development.” Reflecting on UTech, Jamaica's evolution from its origins as the Jamaica Institute of Technology, Dr. Brown reiterated the institution's status as Jamaica's premier national STEM university. He commended UTech, Jamaica for its consistent track record of producing work ready graduates and its commitment to tailoring programmes across all eight faculties and colleges to meet industry demands. Broadening Access to Lifelong Learning Support from National Leaders The Hon. Fayval Williams, Minister of Education and Youth, called the launch "special and historic" and praised UTech, Jamaica's leadership for its vision. She noted that UTechOpen symbolizes the future of continuous learning and self-improvement, empowering Jamaicans in a rapidly evolving world. Minister Williams also commended the focus on STEM as a transformative tool for economic growth and addressing societal challenges. Cont’d from page 1… During the launch ceremony, Dr. Kevin Brown, President, University of Technology, Jamaica presented The Hon. Fayval Williams, MP, Minister of Education and Youth with a token of appreciation for her continued support of the institution. 3 July - September 2024 | VOICES Quarterly Magazine of the University of Technology, Jamaica Keynote speaker Mr. Courtney Campbell, President and CEO of VM Group, praised UTechOpen as a crucial initiative for Jamaica’s Vision 2030. He stressed the need for continuous upskilling in a technologydriven world, advocating for flexible, adaptive learning models. Also addressing the launch, Ms. Nickeisha Walsh, Executive Director of the Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) and UTech alumna, shared her organization's dedication to making higher education accessible. She announced up to 2.5 billion dollars in funding for STEM students at UTech and detailed SLB’s revamped loan products to support students on their educational journeys. The launch concluded with alumni sharing testimonials of their time at UTech Academy, underscoring the supportive role of the institution in their success. Opposition Leader Mr. Mark Golding underscored the importance of innovation, stating, "In order to thrive, you must stay ahead of the curve and be forwardthinking." He praised UTechOpen for its adaptability and encouraged partnerships with stakeholders to maximize the school’s impact. Dr. Sophia McIntosh, Head of UTechOpen, emphasized the school’s commitment to innovative and expanded educational access for local and global students, as well as meeting the training needs of businesses and organizations. UTechOpen will partner with both private and public sectors to offer impactful courses in lifelong learning and professional development. Mr. Mark Golding, Leader of the Opposition Ambassador Dr. Rocky Meade, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, expressed his excitement for UTech’s focus on digitalization and STEM education. He noted that UTechOpen is instrumental in creating accessible learning pathways that ensure no one is left behind. Ambassador Dr. Rocky Meade, Permanent Secretary, OPM Mr. Courtney Campbell, President and CEO, VM Group Dr. Sophia McIntosh, Head, UTechOpen UTechOpen School of Lifelong Learning and Professional Development Launched
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