Members of the University of Technology, Jamaica’s management team, faculty, administrative staff, and Students’ Union representatives pause for a group photo during their visit to the UTech, Jamaica Western Campus, Dome Street, Montego Bay, on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Jamaica) continues to demonstrate resilience and care as it works to restore operations and provide critical support to its Western Campus community in Montego Bay, following the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, particularly in western Jamaica. Many students and staff based at the Western Campus experienced damage to their homes, and some faced the tragic loss of loved ones as a result of the hurricane.
The University’s Western Campus accommodates approximately 500 students across two locations in Montego Bay: the Barnett Street site, which houses the Caribbean School of Nursing, and the Dome Street site. Together, they offer a range of programmes including the Bachelor of Business Administration, B.Sc. in Nursing, M.Sc. in Health Administration (Nutrition), M.Sc. in Public Health, B.Sc. in Computer Information Systems, Bachelor of Laws, and professional development courses through UTechOpen School of Lifelong Learning and Professional Development.
In the wake of the devastating storm the university’s leadership has prioritized the welfare of students and staff and has conducted comprehensive assessments across all campuses before resuming teaching and learning.
“Our Western Campus family has shown incredible strength and courage through this difficult time,” said Dr. Kevin Brown, President of UTech, Jamaica. “Despite significant setbacks, our commitment to our students and staff remains unwavering, and their safety and wellbeing remain our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that every affected student and staff has access not only to basic resources like food, shelter, and connectivity, but also to emotional and psychosocial support through our counselling and chaplaincy services.”
Campus Recovery Progress
The Dome Street campus, which experienced flooding, has undergone extensive cleaning and partial restoration, and was reopened on Monday, November 10, 2025. While further repairs continue, teaching and administrative operations have resumed. The campus was powered by a backup generator until the week of November 17 when JPS power returned, with water supplied from on-site storage tanks. To restore digital connectivity, the University has installed a Starlink device as a backup for internet connectivity.
The Barnett Street location, remains temporarily closed due to significant structural damage, including roof failure and extensive water intrusion. Assessment and repair work are underway, with the goal of reopening as soon as safety standards are met.
Dr. Brown also noted that “We have strengthened our support systems through the Student Welfare Unit, Counselling Unit, and Chaplaincy Unit to help affected students and staff. Those unable to resume studies immediately have been given the option to withdraw without penalty to GPA or finances. We have also implemented special grants, fee waivers, and care packages for students in need.”
Ms. Antoinette Smith, Western Campus Coordinator shared, “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from our UTech, Jamaica colleagues, volunteers, and the wider community. Every act of generosity has made a real difference to our students and staff during this difficult time.”
Continuing Support for Staff and Students
As part of its ongoing relief initiatives, a UTech, Ja delegation comprising members of the University’s management, faculty, administrative staff, and the Students’ Union visited the Western Campus on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, to distribute emergency supplies, including bottled water, generators, and essential care items.
This mission formed part of the coordinated response through the University’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). The EOC serves as the central hub for managing disaster response and coordinating the receipt and distribution of relief items to affected students and employees. Following this visit, additional members of staff mobilized efforts to provide further assistance to colleagues and students in the west, complemented by the continued distribution of care packages by the Student Welfare Office. These and other forms of support will be sustained in the coming weeks as the University works to ensure the welfare of its community members.
A Call for Continued Support
As recovery and rebuilding efforts continue, the University remains steadfast in its mission to foster a safe environment for learning, research, and service for all students and staff. Dr. Brown extended gratitude to the partners and volunteers who have contributed to the relief efforts, while acknowledging that “we cannot do this alone.”
“We need the continued support of our partners, alumni, and friends of the University to help us rebuild and restore our Western Campus,” Dr. Brown emphasized. “Every act of generosity, whether in cash or kind, helps our students and staff recover, refocus, and return to learning.” Dr. Brown reiterated.
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Contact:
Michelle Beckford (Mrs.)
Corporate Communications Manager
University of Technology, Jamaica
Telephone: (876) 970-5299
Email: mbeckford@utech.edu.jm
