Professor C. Justin Robinson was formally sworn in as the new pro-vice-chancellor and principal of The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Five Islands Campus during an induction ceremony.
The event, which was full of heartfelt, modest, and thankful moments, was a critical turning point for Eastern Caribbean academia. Professor Robinson began his speech to the audience by jokingly reflecting on his nerves and drawing a comparison to his wedding day 22 years prior when he last wore a matching suit.
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The experienced educator revealed his intense love for West Indies cricket and linked his team’s success to any potential cardiac issues in the future. In his overview of the Five Islands Campus, Professor Robinson emphasized the value of quality, innovation, and knowledge.
He emphasized the institution’s ability to subvert ideas of educational elitism and recognized its special status as the first landed campus in the Eastern Caribbean.
The recently appointed principal conveyed his gratitude for the kind welcome from Antigua and Barbuda’s government and populace.
He expressed his appreciation to his network of friends, family, and coworkers at The UWI.
Speaking on the institution’s financial struggles, Professor Robinson emphasized the necessity of a “Revenue Revolution” to close the financing deficit.
He urged coworkers, business executives, and members of the public sector to take on creative projects and support The UWI’s financial stability. Professor Robinson stressed the need to develop a business plan for the Five Islands Campus that promotes financial independence from government funding as he prepares to lead at the highest level in The UWI.
He challenged his colleagues to be open to change and get involved in projects that improve the university’s standing in the international arena.
Professor Robinson discussed the need of a landed campus in the Eastern Caribbean and highlighted two key factors: creating a critical mass of competent people resources and promoting research to address local issues.
He underlined the need to conduct research that is specific to the Caribbean’s conditions, particularly in light of the climate crisis, chronic non-communicable illnesses, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence.
In his speech, Professor Robinson stated his goals for an inclusive and varied campus community that actively fosters an atmosphere in which each person has the opportunity to flourish and their voice is heard.
He was excited about the trip ahead and the prospect of working together to transform the Five Islands Campus into a center of knowledge and a driving force for progress in the area.
In addition to commemorating a pivotal point in Professor Robinson’s career, the induction ceremony opened a new phase in the growth of The UWI, Five Islands Campus.
