Pushing UWI in 21st Century
by Tony Best
It was an interesting and informative session on the future of the University of the West Indies (UWI), and when it was over in Manhattan, there was no doubt that the Caribbean’s premiere institution for higher learning was in good hands – those of Prof. Rex Nettleford and his team. If an institution is to thrive, it must have a vision, and the one outlined by the new Vice-Chancellor of the 50-year-old institution, would go a long way in helping the Caribbean satisfy many of its needs. It would also help to show the world that the region is a dynamic and creative place, which is moving to help itself. According to Prof. Nettleford, the UWI in the 21st Century, must not only be a university for undergraduate students. If it’s to perform its role effectively, then it must be at the centre of educational excellence. The UWI must also extend a helping hand to the network of colleges now functioning in Barbados, Antigua, the Bahamas, Jamaica and St. Lucia. With the UWI at the hub of these tertiary institutions, the region will be well served by schools, which are liberalising higher education. The rate at which high school graduates go on to university is much lower than those of its Latin American neighbours, according to a United Nations report. By supporting these colleges, the UWI is aiding the Caribbean as a whole. The attitude of the university and of its new Vice-Chancellor towards the state colleges and community colleges, which, in a real sense, could turn out to be competitors for students, tells a story about inner confidence. It is also letting it be known that the region’s needs are being put at the top of the list of priorities. Prof. Nettleford, who must put his own stamp of authority on the UWI, is in the fortunate position of having succeeded Sir Alistir McIntyre, who had the same passion and a somewhat similar vision for the university. The expanded role envisioned by Prof. Nettleford will, if fulfilled, take the institution to the next level of operation. Yes, the Vice-Chancellor is right to continue the work, which aims to remove the notions of elitism, which often encased the university. He is also correct when he said that the UWI must become even more student friendly, so that current and former students can have a life-long relationship with their alma mater. The students must join hands with Prof. Nettleford and others to reduce the UWI’s dependence on Caribbean governments. The university, which has given so much to the various countries, shouldn’t be reluctant to ask for help, and those who have benefited from the high quality education it offers shouldn’t hesitate to give. We would also like to see UWI teachers and scholars publish more. While publish or perish may not be an acceptable path to follow, experts in various fields must publish books and other material to document their work and to share it with the community at large. The UWI has served us well and it must position itself to do even better in the 21st Century. 
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