The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus has been actively engaged, making a remarkable impact on Antigua and Barbuda. In a recent interview with state media, Shavar Maloney, the university’s Marketing Officer, highlighted some of the institution’s recent achievements and discussed upcoming initiatives on the agenda.

According to Maloney, UWI Five Islands has wrapped up a busy season of community activities, from a cleanup that removed thousands of pounds of waste to a 300‑person 5K and other wellness challenges.

UWIFIC 5K Run/Walk (photo by The UWI Five Islands Campus)

Maloney emphasized the significance of prioritizing personal health and making time for exercise when balancing your academic and vocational pursuits.

“We are making sure that we are working with persons so that they understand that there’s more to life than just the books. There’s more to life than just going to work. It’s about being happy, being healthy and moving,” shared Maloney.

The campus is also actively enhancing its connections with Five Islands Primary School and local businesses. Maloney notes that initially these relationships were somewhat challenging; however, he now indicates that they have developed a much more positive rapport with both the primary school and the broader community.

“The community has embraced us now. We’re working with the school, Mr. (Alden) James (Five Islands Primary School principal) and his team, the students, and they’ve been participating,” noted Maloney. “So we’re like that older sibling now to the primary school and we’ve formally adopted them.”

UWI students during community clean-up event

In addition, the university is actively promoting in-demand programs in technology, healthcare, business, criminology, and education, for which applications are now open. Maloney mentions that links are being established with other Caribbean nations that are also interested in these programs.

“We recently went to Grenada and the Grenadian high command has bought into it…and very soon, we’ll see an MOU being signed with the T.A Marryshow Community College in Grenada with a pathway for their students into that program,” said Maloney, speaking of UWI Five Island’s criminology program.

The campus is also preparing to launch a new law program, an offering that has generated significant buzz in the nation and the surrounding islands. This program, developed in collaboration with the Mona Campus, is set to provide a comprehensive education in various legal areas aligning with the evolving needs of the region.

Maloney explained that this initiative aims to equip students with the expertise required to excel in modern legal professions, emphasizing that “law doesn’t mean just being a lawyer who stands up in court,” but involves diverse opportunities in new commercial ventures.

Shavar Maloney with students during EGC Business School Martinique & Guadeloupe visit to UWI Five Islands (photo by The UWI FIve Islands Campus)

Importantly, Maloney shared that ‘Walk-In Wednesdays’ are back at UWI Five Islands, an initiative offering after‑work support for anyone exploring study options, submitting documents, or seeking quick admissions help.

The campus is now preparing for summer orientation, and celebrating an expected 200 graduates ready to enter the regional workforce.

With its multi-faceted impact on society, UWI Five Islands is becoming more than just an educational institution; it’s a community partner, cultural contributor, and a beacon of opportunity for Antigua and Barbuda and beyond. As Maloney aptly summarized, “UWI is here to serve, we’re here to build, we’re here to partner, we are a part of the community.”