UWI students urged to leverage skillsets for upliftment of society

University of the West Indies (UWI) Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles, has challenged the new cohort of students to utilize their knowledge and experience in different academic areas for the betterment of their fellow man, as the world continues to face mounting socio economic issues.

Speaking during the 2022 Matriculation Ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor stressed the need for students to not only use the vast knowledge contained within the university to assist them in earning their degrees, but to also leverage their skillsets for the upliftment of the society.

Sir Hilary said the issues currently facing the world will continue to mount if interventions across the board are not done.

“Issues around climate change, food security, issues that are relevant to public health and pandemic management. Issues such as crime and violence and the security of citizens … these are the big issues that are facing the world today. As students, we urge you to participate in these conversations,” he said.

“You are entering an academic community, and therefore your response will be of an academic nature, but we also urge you to become public advocates for your views, for the philosophies you hold dear, and for your willingness to make this world a better place. To do so some of you will choose to be activists, and to be activists within the finest traditions of the University of the West Indies culture.”

Sir Hilary emphasized the need for students to not only engage fully in their academics, but to also make use of their critical thinking, saying, “We urge you to use your critical intellect, your critical consciousness, to identify ways even greater value can be added.” (SB)