Resilience in Action: The UWI’s commitment to Jamaica

The University of the West Indies (The UWI) extends its deepest solidarity to the people and the Government of Jamaica in the wake of the most powerful hurricane to ever impact the nation.

Our hearts go out to all individuals and institutions affected by this unprecedented disaster. It is a sobering reminder of the escalating effects of climate change and the acute vulnerability of our small island states. This event represents not only a humanitarian crisis but also a significant setback to Jamaica’s hard-won economic and developmental progress.

Your indigenous University, rooted in the Caribbean, The UWI stands not only as an academic provider but as a first responder in times of regional crisis. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the rebuilding process. A scope of work has been defined—from climate modelling to community health outreach. The UWI is positioned and ready to mobilise its full breadth of expertise, multidisciplinary resources, and volunteer network in support of national recovery and rebuilding efforts and will convene a task force to lead this.

Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of The UWI Mona Campus, Densil A. Williams, noted that the team is actively involved in data collection and response mobilisation to meet the country’s needs.

We are especially mindful of the severe impact of Hurricane Melissa on the western region of the island. Education must not be a casualty of disaster. The UWI is working tirelessly to ensure that every student at the Western Jamaica Campus can resume their studies without delay or disruption. We are also concerned for staff residing and working in this region who may need assistance.

Recovery is a collective mission. The UWI welcomes partnerships with regional governments, NGOs, and the private sector to accelerate Jamaica’s return to effective functionality.

Together, we will rebuild not just what was lost, but a future fortified by knowledge, unity, and Caribbean resilience.

Professor Sir Hilary Beckles

Vice-Chancellor

The University of the West Indies