The latter part of the 2019-20 academic year was one of considerable upheaval. When Jamaica was struck by the COVID-19 crisis in March 2020, The UWI suspended classes and students were encouraged to return to their homes. Four weeks later in mid-April we resumed classes in an online mode. The remainder of the academic year was a period of uncertainty and constant change, yet we have managed to persevere. To be sure, many of us are still grappling with the repercussions and effects of the crisis, and there are challenges yet to come, but the department remains steadfast in its mission to be an excellent global university rooted in the Caribbean. Rest assured that the education you receive here will be of the highest quality, and know that your lecturers are committed to working with you to help you do your best and realise your potential. The University of the West Indies continues to be a great place to let your light shine.

The 2020-21 academic year is a critical one for the department as we continue to respond to the changing needs of the communities we serve as part of our mission of excellence. Two years ago we announced the introduction of the BA in Film Studies and a Minor in Creative Writing. This year, we are proud to announce another new programme, the BA Writing, Literature and Publishing. This multidisciplinary programme seeks to provide students interested in literature and creative writing with skills that will prepare them to work in the publishing industry.

As you tackle the challenges of registration, course selection and scheduling, and later, the hard work required for optimal performance in your courses, it may not feel like it, but you are also at a pivotal moment in your lives. You have become a member of a scholarly community and this is a wonderful opportunity to expand your intellectual horizons, discover your passions, meet new people and develop what may become life-long relationships. You have a responsibility to yourself, and to the community of which you are a part, to strive to be the best that you can be.

The Department of Literatures in English wants to help and support you in this quest. We pride ourselves on being a student-friendly department: a place where students feel welcome and where they can be assured of informed guidance and a sympathetic ear.