Yesterday, over 250 individuals graduated from courses offered by the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus Life-Long Learning Unit (LLU) in a thrilling graduation ceremony held at the UWI Five Islands Campus.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Governor General, His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, and Foreign Affairs Minister, E.P. Chet Greene, who generously sponsored courses for several of his constituents.

Head of the LLU, Paula Lee, expressed her excitement for the learning revolution that is taking place in Antigua and Barbuda with the establishment of the UWI FIC. Congratulations to all the graduates!

“There is easier access to professional development training, a wider variety of courses that are ideal for current and emerging sectors and industries are being offered, access to studies through the Harvard Credential of readiness is available, customized courses are being created and more scholarships will become available,” she told the audience at the university’s auditorium.

She mentioned that LLUs are making a significant impact across the Caribbean.

“We have instilled a craving for knowledge, a hunger for improved skills, and a heightened interest in earning credentials. LLUs were just an idea in 2021, but now they are a reality,” she confidently declared.

Among the graduates were inmates of His Majesty’s Prison who participated in the “Seeds of Hope” program initiated by Prison Superintendent Lt. Col. Trevor Pennyfeather. Omari Philip, a cohort member, was the valedictorian, scoring an impressive average of 93% in his Crisis and Risk Management courses.

Sylvester Lindsay, another member, scored a perfect 100% on the final exam. The rest of the participants in the program averaged over 75%. Despite the obstacles and challenges, Philip said that the cohort persevered and is eager to apply the knowledge they have gained upon re-entry into society. Philip also believes that the courses have taught him valuable life lessons.

“The programme has taught me that no matter where you are from or what mistakes you may have made, we all have the potential to create positive change. I have also learned to stay away from crime and peer pressure,” he stated.

Meanwhile, registration for the LLU courses for 2024 begins on November 15.