During a historic induction ceremony held yesterday, Professor C. Justin Robinson took center stage as he was officially inaugurated into his role as the new Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Five Islands Campus.
The ceremony, filled with moments of humor, humility, and gratitude, marked a significant milestone in the academic landscape of the Eastern Caribbean.
Addressing the audience, Professor Robinson began with a light-hearted reflection on the nervousness he felt, comparing it to the last time he wore a matching suit on his wedding day 22 years ago.
The seasoned educator expressed his deep passion for West Indies cricket, attributing any potential future heart problems to the intensity of his support for the team.
Professor Robinson outlined his vision for the Five Islands Campus, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, innovation, and excellence.
He acknowledged the unique position of the campus as the first landed campus in the Eastern Caribbean and underscored its potential to challenge notions of elitism in education.
The newly inducted principal expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome received from the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda.
He extended his gratitude to his support system, including his family, friends, and colleagues at The UWI.
Touching upon the financial challenges faced by the institution, Professor Robinson highlighted the need for a “Revenue Revolution” to bridge the funding gap.
He encouraged colleagues, corporate leaders, and civil society to embrace innovative ventures and contribute to the financial sustainability of The UWI.
As Professor Robinson looks ahead to lead at the highest level in The UWI, he emphasized the importance of crafting a business model for the Five Islands Campus that fosters financial independence from government financing.
He urged his colleagues to embrace change and participate in initiatives that contribute to the university’s global competitiveness.
Discussing the significance of a landed campus in the Eastern Caribbean, Professor Robinson identified two critical reasons: building a critical mass of capable human resources and driving research to solve regional problems.
He emphasized the need for research tailored to the unique circumstances of the Caribbean, especially in the face of the climate crisis, chronic non-communicable diseases, and the rising influence of artificial intelligence.
Professor Robinson outlined his vision for a diverse and inclusive campus, actively cultivating an environment where every voice is heard, and every individual is given the chance to thrive.
He expressed excitement about the journey ahead, looking forward to collaboratively working towards making the Five Islands Campus a beacon of enlightenment and a catalyst for positive change in the region.
The induction ceremony not only marked a significant moment in Professor Robinson’s career but also signaled a new chapter in the development of The UWI, Five Islands Campus.
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