March 2020 brought a seismic change to Jamaica when it was announced that the COVID-19 virus had reached our shores. I know that each and every one of you would have been affected by the pandemic in ways that challenged you like you had never been challenged before. Certainly, the Mona Campus was not immune to the upheavals that took place. But here we are!

Congratulations to you for managing to stay the course and continuing the journey of realizing your dreams. Bear in mind, as we enter the new academic year, that we continue to deal with the consequences of the pandemic. The return to face-to-face teaching may now feel strange to some even though we welcome opportunities for greater social interaction.

The start of the academic year is usually a demanding period as you embark on the process 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 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 in spite of the challenges that will surely come your way. 

We have learned from the experience of the pandemic that communication is key and that it is essential to be well informed. Bear this in mind as you begin your academic journey at The UWI. Go to the department website and use this handbook to learn more about the programmes and courses we offer, the requirements for your programme and how to contact academic and administrative staff in the department. Make contact with your academic advisor and your programme coordinator and stay in touch with these important people throughout your stay at The UWI.

We encourage you to be active members of our community and to make your mark here at your university.