Under the theme of a kaleidoscope of resilience, UWI held the graduation ceremony for the science and technology and food and agriculture faculties on October 25 at the sport and physical education centre.

The ceremony saw graduates dressed in newly designed regalia meant to represent Caribbean identity, completing their bachelor’s degrees, master's degrees and doctorates, with many earning high distinction and first-class honours.

Dr Dodridge D Miller, in his first address to a graduating class as chancellor, congratulated the graduates and spoke about the university’s global approach to an evolving educational landscape.

“The often-used statement 'think global, act local' is good advice. The UWI, even with its limited resources, cannot afford to view the world only as a local or regional construct. To do so would fail its graduates and the region. We must engage the world and participate in important research and conversations on matters of global consequence.

“By doing so, we will continue to produce graduates with the academic competence and critical and strategic thinking to operate in any environment of their choosing. You, the members of the graduating class of 2024, are the beneficiaries of this global thinking.”

In keeping with the theme of reliance, valedictorian Melissa Edwards gave a heartfelt speech as she shared her story on her journey to graduation with her classmates.

Speaking about her humble beginnings as the daughter of a fisherman in Cedros, she said attending UWI seemed like an impossible dream and the end of her academic journey.

“Growing up, I watched my father brave the unpredictable sea, knowing that every journey was a step toward providing for his family. Today, as I stand here, I realise that our journeys—whether from Cedros or elsewhere—are not so different.

“We have all faced our own rough seas, but with resilience, determination, and the support of those who believe in us, we’ve arrived at this shore, ready to face whatever waters lie ahead. We leave behind the comfort of the familiar to step into a future full of possibility.”

She added while she and her peers started at UWI during a pandemic, they made the most of their time there.

[caption id="attachment_1116718" align="alignnone" width="1024"] GORGEOUS GRADS: Graduates show off their certificates at the close of the graduation ceremony for the Faculties of Science and Technology and Food and Agriculture at the UWI Sports and Physical Education, St Augustine on October 24. - Photo by Faith Ayoung[/caption]

“Amidst the uncertainty of the future and in the unfolding of time, UWI became our second home — the harbour from which we would grow and set sail toward our future.

“These moments highlight that our time here was about more than academics — it was about growth, connections, and the experiences that shaped us.”

She added the challenges posed by the pandemic also taught them valuable lessons.

"If the last few years have taught us anything, it is that we are resilient, that we are capable of handling