The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus held its 2024 graduation ceremony on Monday, awarding degrees to 143 graduates across various disciplines.

The ceremony, held at the SJC House of Restoration Ministries, marked a significant milestone as the campus celebrated its 5th anniversary.

In his address, the Chancellor of UWI, The Most Honourable Doddridge Miller, emphasized the importance of the Five Islands Campus in shaping Caribbean thought and providing greater access to higher education in the Eastern Caribbean.

“As a former corporate executive operating across the Caribbean for more than 30 years, I’ve always advocated for greater autonomy and a stronger presence within the Eastern Caribbean,” Chancellor Miller stated.

“It was important in the corporate arena, and I think it is extremely critical for the institution that shapes the thinking of the Caribbean.”

The ceremony also saw the unveiling of new academic regalia for university officers, symbolizing a break from colonial ties and embracing Caribbean identity.

“Tradition meets evolution as the spirit of Caribbean us infuses these gowns, marking a new history for the University of the West Indies,” Chancellor Miller remarked.

Valedictorian Akilia MacFarlane, who graduated with First Class Honours in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, delivered an inspiring address.

She reflected on the resilience and unity that defines the Caribbean people, stating, “ Resilience that is woven into the very fabric of our lives. It resonates in the rhythm of our music, the laughter in our voices and the vibrant colours of our festivals. It’s evident in how we tackled each tough assignment, sometimes back-to-back, and we have to wonder what in the world is going on. But we made it.”

MacFarlane encouraged her fellow graduates to embrace their role as innovators and change-makers, drawing inspiration from Caribbean legends like Sir Curtly Ambrose and Ambassador Dr. Walton Webson, both of whom received honorary doctorates at the ceremony.

The UWI Five Islands Campus has seen remarkable growth since its establishment in 2019, with student enrollment increasing from approximately 200 to over 1,100.

The 2024 graduating class represents a diverse range of programs, including Business and Management, Health and Behavioural Sciences, Humanities and Education, and Science, Computing, and Artificial Intelligence.

As the ceremony concluded, the graduates recited the alumni pledge, committing to uphold the ideals and goals of their alma mater and serve their country and region with excellence.