YOUR GUILD GOES GREEN A FRESHER PERSPECTIVE ON REGIONALISM F.A.Q WITH YOUR FACULTY REPS STUDENT SAFETY BEYOND THE S.O.E
2011-2012 Semester I
FROM THE DESK OF THE P.C.C
This semester's issue of the Your Guild Magazine is themed 'A Fresher Perspective'. Do not confuse the use of term 'fresher' with it’s meaning in the university's usual jargon. This magazine isn't about a year one’s out look on university li fe; it's a commentary from the eyes of student leadership on the changing face of the university, society and student leadership itself. This guild has been called the 'fresher' guild, and we aren't afraid to own that title. We have had fresh concepts and ideas for tackling problems. We have seen fresh changes on administrative and university levels. We have observed these changes while settling into our roles as councilors (first time and returning alike) and now we take all that we have seen and share it with students. Our vision must become not only the Council's, but that of the entire Guild. We must move forward together as a unified student body and ensure that our voices are not lost in the clamor that is the change occurring around us. Look forward with us and see your university through . .
A Fresher Perspective.
The YOURGUILD magazine is the official magazine of the Guild of Students here at St. Augustine. The Guild consists of all matriculated students who have paid their guild fee and all are welcome to benefit from the opportunities and services that are available through its offices. The guild council exists to serve students and is regulated by the Constitution which is ratified at university level. The Guild Constitution is available for download at http://mysta.uwi.edu/documents/Guild_Constitution_StAugustine.pdf
President Amilcar Sanatan Vice-President Kevin Ramsewak Secretary Kurba-Marie Questelles Treasurer Darren Mitchell Post Graduate Representative Leslie Sylvester Publications Committee Chairperson Runako Thornhill Student Activities Chairperson Kasi Smith National Affairs Chairperson Kizzy-Anne Boatswain International Affairs Chairperson Kelsey Carrington Games Committee Chairperson Akel Baig Medical Sciences Student Chairperson Deepak Ramsingh Part-time and Evening Representative Nigel Thomas Faculty of Social Sciences and Law Representative Travis Laugier Faculty of Humanities and Education Clydeen Mc Donald Faculty of Science and Agriculture Representative Cereem Nichols Faculty of Engineering Representative Marvin Carbon Canada Hall Chairperson Alvin Mottley Milner Hall Chairperson Dwayne Murray Joyce Gibson-Innis Hall Chairperson Cindy-Ann Beckles Trinity Hall Chairperson Tanya Boucher Sir Arthur Lewis Hall Chairperson Kenique Ivery Public Relations Officer Mervin-Alwyn Agiste Deputy Postgrad Representative Kelvin Polson Editor in Chief- Runako Thornhill Cover Art- Marcus Arthur Layout and Design- Dionique de Nobriga, Marcus Arthur, Gerard Andrews Committee Editor- Khadija St. Louis, Committee Photographer- Marc Jordan, Committee Writer- Joneille Johnson Administrative Support- Andrew Chattergoon, La Toya Garcia Henry, Andre Benjamin, Gabrielle Le Gendre
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WHATS S WHAT
A Fresher Perspective 3
With Love and Hibiscus 6
Guild Gone Green 8 Rep Your Faculty 10 Social Sciences 12 Science and Agriculture 13 Medical Sciences 14 Engineering 15 P.G. Representative’s Address 17 Mature Students and Higher Education in the 21st Century 18 U.W.I. CLUBS 20 U.W.I. St. Augustine Law Society 22 Guild Events 24 On Regionalism (I.A.C.C.’s Address) 27
INSIDE INSIDE
28 The Island Associations 30 Bridging the Gap
31 S.O.S to S.O.E and back 32 Life of a Councillor 34 In These Halls 36 Canada 37 Joyce Gibson-Innis 38 Milner 40 Sir Arthur Lewis 42 Trinity 43 Hall Pictures 44 Street Team 45 G.U.A.D.I.Y 46 Treasurer’s Report
1. Internationalization of the student experience at St. Augustine 2. Regional integration through discourse and community building around “Caribbeanness� For the academic year, we have put forward a thematic
It is not that I love Doubles less, it is that I love UWI more. Welcome to the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine and I especially welcome you to the Guild of Students. You are a full member of the Guild of Students and therefore, we, the Guild Council are accountable to you. I am Amilcar Sanatan, the President of the Guild. I graduated with Honours in a Bsc. Psychology with a special focus on Sociology and Gender and Development Studies and this new academic year I began my MPhil in Cultural Studies. I am a spoken word performer, I love writing and reading poetry, riding my bicycle and cooking red curry tofu, baigan and mushrooms. This is my small effort to let you know me personally in the hope that I can get the same opportunity to know you as well. The Guild of Students is a 23 member Council that has been elected through a democratic process. This election process is convened annually. I strongly encourage you to download your Constitution at www.mysta.uwi.edu .Throughout the entire Council, we represent most needs and interests of Evening, Part-Time and Full Time students. This year in the Office of the President, we have two major objectives:
experience hosting Know Your Guild Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Fight Against HIV/AIDS Month, Caribbean History and Imagination Month, Gender Equality and Equity Month and Health ,Safety and Environmental Protection Month. I would now like to take this opportunity to introduce you to two of the major projects of the Office of the President. To begin with, we have the Caribbean and Hemispheric Philanthropic Project. The CHPP is a foreign travel project aimed at facilitating student philanthropic work in nonEnglish speaking territories in the Caribbean and Latin America. The idea was born out of the realization that physical inter-campus interaction on a large scale for students occur bi-annually at the UWI Games. We found this to be inadequate. For this reason, we thought it best to push the regional agenda in doing good work for no praise, but instead for the value of the deed itself. In August of this year we facilitated a student delegation to Haiti to head-start a sustainable goat program for Haitian families and food drives in primary schools. The delegation comprised of one Guild representative, two Medical sciences representatives and one photographer.
The unanimous review on their return was that Haiti changed their life forever. It is in this spirit that we would also like to change the lives of our Caribbean sisters and brothers throughout time. For this semester we have commenced discussions on travelling to our next destination, with which we look to the north. Not too far north, but to the fellow Caribbean state of Cuba. Next we draw attention to the Caribbean Reasonings lecture series. During the summer which we referred to as Semester III, we hosted the ‘Demystifying Journey’, which included panel discussions on Rastafari, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Atheism. This semester, we are conducting the ‘To Taboo’ series, we began with the successfully hosted ‘Iz A bad Ting’ ,which looked at the
popular debates around female sexuality in the Caribbean. In November we hosted the ‘Iz A Bulla’ and ‘Legalize It Nah’ forums, we look forward to your continued attendance and reasoning contribution. With our minds strengths and will, we can bring this campus together and forge closer ties with our regional partners beyond faculty or geographical divides and build ONE UNIVERSITY. And yes, it is in our hearts that we can build ONE CARIBBEAN that respects National Pride while holding a Regional Perspective. Only with your help we will realize the vision of the Guild. Mature students, student parents, young students, the religious, the scientists, the artists and engineers, with everyone on board, we can live up to the motto of the Guild and achieve our dreams - Together We Can Make It Happen. With Love and Hibiscus,
President
by Kevin Ramsewak
GUILD GONE
Be the one to change and not only adapt to the negatives that surround you, this is what I believe in. Today we live in a society that chooses to adapt instead of realizing our individual purposes and contributions to change. Every individual has a contribution not only to their immediate community but the global one. The little things we do in terms of being advocates for the environment, our own personal touch can make a difference. Our environment is our business, in our everyday stroll there must be a burning desire to become a greener soul. Just like the idea of owning a massive house and having a great job, this simple seed, the desire to fight for our environment, must be sowed in our hearts. The Green way is the ideal way. We have placed ourselves in a situation where we are dependent on too many things that injure our planet. The Guild has started the ‘green walk’ by dubbing our opening event of the academic year “The Green Edition”. Our UWI GUILD FEST Orientation program, created the buzz that my Guild is Green. It was an extensive event that took place from the 2nd September to the 9th September. During this period there was a great mix of clubs, associations and also
corporate sponsors that took part in this Green idea. The clubs were engrossed in doing recyclable projects, while most of the sponsors had some small representation of Green practices or portrayed it in their décor. The village was swamped with plants, fountains, bamboo sheds and night lighting to bring about that evening aura. UWI GUILD FEST 2011 “The Green Edition” sought to change the mindset surrounding the orientation program and ensured that it was worthwhile and meaningful. From the coconut man distributing “cold ones” to the bamboo huts and even the guy selling ground provisions, the village felt like a place rich with earthy qualities. The village was well rounded, and I must congratulate all clubs for portraying that aspect of going Green. We continued the semester with more initiatives, like the “Guild Green Giant”. This initiative is geared toward sensitizing students about green habits and also new agricultural practices. It introduces what ideal everyday practices should be and how students can make a contribution to the issues of Food Security, Energy Conservation and Wildlife Preservation. We will produce Green Giants and a legacy will be birthed and fostered by our university community. The journey has now begun and we the pilots must take not only our University but our nation to greater soaring heights. We must represent who we are and reiterate our vision as Earth Warriors. We are great and we must live for greatness, feed our nation and be the Green Heart. Join us on an endless journey to success, a fruitful walk to sustainability and the fight for a Green Nation. Together we can make it happen.
9
Your Facuty Representatives from the left:- Cereem Nichols- Science and Agriculture, Travis Laugier- Social Sciences and Law, Deepak Ramsingh- Medical Sciences, Marvin Carbon- Engineering
These are the guys who represent you and your needs to the University’s administration. It’s only fair that we let you know how and why they go about doing just that. We asked them a few questions and gave them a chance to give us the questions that they are asked most frequently. Read on and judge for yourself how well they Rep Your Faculty.
How would you define the students of the faculty you represent?
A: The faculty is very large and diverse and the students are very demanding. I do think though, that a lot of them, particularly the year ones have not quite yet dissolved their secondary level mentality.
What motivated you to become a faculty representative?
A: Acting as the deputy for the previous faculty representative grew a passion for representation in me.
In your opinion what makes a good faculty representative?
A: A good faculty representative is some that is available to his students and maintains a good relationship with administration.
Before being elected what were some of the major problems you thought needed repair in your faculty?
A: The interaction between lecturers and students. This problem was solved by the introduction of the student faculty liaison committee by the dean last year as well as some infrastructural issues e.g. labs
What have you done to fix the problems within your faculty?
A: We have gotten particular students fixed on the student faculty liaison committee. So that now there are a couple more students involved with interacting with lecturing staff. Also there was the establishment of two new student societies; the tourism club and the law society.
Do you represent two separate Faculties? No. Social Sciences and Law on the St. Augustine campus are not separate faculties. Law in my tenure exists as a department of the Cave Hill Campus. I represent the Law students who opt to do the program on the St. Augustine campus rather What is your vision for your faculty? than at Cave Hill. Provisions are being put in place to have an A: My vision for the faculty is to see it become more student independent Law Faculty on the STA Campus, however this is friendly and oriented. I would like to see lecturers come to yet to be achieved. the student’s level instead of talking down to them, to see students feel comfortable to go to class and engage lecturers. What exactly are you there for? The faculty representative is mandated to represent student What is your greatest hurdle you have faced in trying to matters at all relevant boards and to encourage participation bring this vision to fruition? of the students in the events and activities of the guild. A: The biggest hurdle to reaching this vision is getting the students to act as one. Do you have special privileges or benefits in your classes? What general improvements would you like to see made in No, I am treated like a regular student in all of my classes. the university? A: An increase in use of technology throughout the campus. Who helps you do your job? How do you manage academics, friends, family and guild I have a committee made up of volunteers. (Feel free to responsibility? become one) A: Whatever comes first, I handle it then. What is the best way to contact you? Where is the one place on campus that students can find Via Email. (representativefss@mysta.uwi.edu) you if they need advice or answers?
A: In the guild office, if I had clothes here it would be my home
How would you define the students of the faculty you represent?
A: I would describe them as interesting, because even though most students have time consuming labs they still find a way to be involved in extracurricular activities.
What motivated you to become a faculty representative?
A: The opportunity to make a change.
In your opinion what makes a good faculty representative?
A: Someone who is intellectual, who knows how to treat people and is respectful. Someone who can manage schoolwork, guild responsibilities and represent their faculty to the fullest.
Before being elected what were some of the major problems you thought needed repair in your faculty?
A: There was a lack of security, no mobile vendors, no vending machines, a lack of benches and participation in the clubs. There was also no room for clubs to host meetings. What have you done to fix the problems within your faculty? A: I’ve placed lockers, vending machines with snacks and drinks, security patrols, doubles vendors and currently sourcing rooms for the clubs that participated in the faculty week.
What is your vision for your faculty?
A: To incorporate both students and lecturers in discussions, allowing the parties to meet regularly enough to achieve a student/lecturer bond. What is your greatest hurdle you have faced in trying to bring the vision for your faculty into fruition?
A: This would definitely be getting lecturers involved in discussions. What general improvements would you like to see made in the university?
What are the responsibilities of the faculty Representative? I am responsible for representing student concerns at Academic and Faculty Board meetings, being a liaison between the guild and the faculty. As well as hosting extracurricular activities for the students of the faculty. How do you plan to incorporate FSA into Guild activities? By creating clear channels of communication and using innovative approaches. As well as bringing more activities and opportunities into FSA spaces. What is one problem you have struggled the most with as a rep? Flooding in the faculty has been a persistent issue. I plan to continually liaise with campus management to ensure that the issue remains on the front burner.
A: Administration showing more respect for the student body How do you intend to increase participation amongst of the university. students from the faculty? Getting information across to students has always been criti How do you juggle academics, friends, family and guild cal to increasing student participation in faculty/guild events. responsibilities? I am currently working on a private database of FSA students A: I actually don’t! I’m a bit of a “move with the wind” kind for information sharing, additionally; we will make use of the of guy. If there is guild work to be done, I do that, if I have screens around the faculty. school work to do, I do that also. I take it as it comes. Where is the one place on campus that students can find you if they need advice or answers? A: In the Guild office, every day. Monday to Sunday, weekdays 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, weekends1:00pm – 5:00pm.
How does the guild help FSA students that may be in need financially? The Guild of students provide three types of funding for students (not only for FSA but for all faculties) , academic bursaries, sporting bursaries and an emergency endowment fund. Feel free to come into the office or contact me for more information on financial aid.
you represent?
How would you define the students of the faculty
A: Students in the faculty are quite unique. They are split into five schools of medical sciences and they represent various nationalities, some from as far as Malaysia, Botswana and India.
What motivated you to become a faculty representative?
A: There were many gaps within the student support system in the faculty, and I wished to work with the guild to fill the gaps. To enable proper student support and eventually growth in terms of international relations.
In your opinion what makes a good faculty representative? A: One that is able to accommodate the individual needs of every student under the faculty. Before being elected what were some of the major problems you thought needed repair in your faculty? A: There was a definite infrastructure problem. There were also various problems with lighting, student space, library conditions and poor lab scheduling.
How do I become an active member of the Medical Sciences Student Council? The council comprises of elected class representatives of all schools of the Faculty of Medical Sciences as well as the Presidents of the relevant school organisations. You can also become a member of its sport, publication, technical or soon coming research arm. Is the MSSC interaction limited to the faculty relations or is there a chance for regional or even international relations? The MSSC strives to maintain all three types of relations. There have been some huge strides taken in the last year and we hope to continually progress.
What have you done to fix the problems within your faculty?
A: We have increased study space, decentralized the MSSC , and placed responsibility on the separate schools’ representatives giving students greater accessibility to advice and assistance.
What is your vision for your faculty?
A: My vision for the faculty to see it grow and meet international standards through raising the level of competency of the students and school to match those international standards. What is your greatest hurdle you have faced in trying to bring this vision to fruition?
A: My greatest hurdle is the coalescence of the student body. Getting them to break out of the stereotypical, 100% academia focused medical student mentality. What general improvements would you like to see made in the university?
With respect to student support systems, how The Medical Sciences arm would benefit from infrastructural efficient is the MSSC at handling important issues. development to allow for the growing admission of students, Once a complaint or an issue has been raised, it is added more on campus activities and a feedback system between to the task list and attached to a representing body or class examinations staff and students. representative, the MSSC deals with issues within hours to days. Depending on the nature of the issue it can be How do you juggle academics, friends, family and guild presented to the Guild Council. responsibilities? A: It’s exceptionally difficult and demanding. I have found a Are there any new services the MSSC wishes to balance between them by zoning off my time and speaking to launch in the future? my consultants closely. We wish to launch a service which allocates space and a Where is the one place on campus that students can find you day of the week to students who wish to involve the rest of the student body with new activities, promote new skills if they need advice or answers? A: The MSSC has decentralized, but if students need to speak or even run a basic clinic to use their skills to give back to to me directly, they can always call me. My number is posted the community. on every notice board on the campus!
you represent?
How would you define the students of the faculty
A: I would define them as a group hard working individuals who do all they can within their faculty to survive a rigorous engineering program.
What motivated you to become a faculty representative? A: During my year as a class representative within my department I was powerless to deal with many issues brought to me. I became a faculty representative so that I would have the power to do more. In your opinion what makes a good faculty representative?
A: A good faculty rep is one that can balance the needs of students’ academic success as well as their need for social interaction. Before being elected what were some of the major problems you thought needed repair in your faculty?
A: Students that needed prerequisites to go onto the next level were prevented from doing various summer school courses that would give them the prerequisites.
What have you done to fix the problems within your faculty? A: In an attempt to get them to make the courses available for repeaters, I have been trying to convince the administrative and department heads that the success rates of courses in the summer are higher, using examples from other institutions. What is your vision for your faculty?
A: To see my faculty become a group of students that work hard, but are not overworked. My vision is to try and ease the students’ burden and give them a fair chance to be successful. What is your greatest hurdle you have faced in trying to bring this vision to fruition?
A: Trying to find a way to express my need for changes without insulting my superiors or making them feel as though I am trying to take over the running of the faculty. What general improvements would you like to see made in the university?
A: I think I speak for everyone when I say faster student advisory service. Most times you receive an untimely answer and sometimes you don’t get an answer at all.
How to become a member of Engineering Student’s Society? Once you are a registered member of UWI in the Faculty of Engineering you are a member of the ESS. What officers make up the ESS executive? The PRO, Student Coordinator, Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, President. How long has the ESS been in existence? The Engineering Student’s Society began in the early 1960’s and was revived in 1989 after a short stagnant period. The ESS is the student organization of APETT, which is a representative body of all the engineering students.
How does the ESS carry out its communication with the students? Departments in the faculty of Engineering each have an How do you juggle academics, friends, family and guild undergraduate program ranging from year one to year responsibilities? three. Each year group in each department has a class rep. A: My friends, family and my council are my support system. Each one is responsible for spreading the information that I try my best to make sure I delegate appropriate work to the they receive from the ESS to their classmates. Also there is appropriate people. an ESS Facebook page where the students can receive any notification from the ESS. Where is the one place on campus that students can find you if they need advice or answers? A: I’m 3 places mainly. I’m either in my office, the guild office or on Canada hall.
P.G REPRESENTATIVE'S ADDRESS Traditionally the guild council has consisted of a majority of undergraduate students, with the exception of the Postgraduate Representative. The role of the Postgraduate Representative has become increasingly important as the postgraduate community at St. Augustine now constitutes almost one quarter of the student population. Now, for the first time in the existence of the guild of students, the Postgraduate Representative has been allowed to sit in an executive position on the Guild Council. This move has marked a step in the right direction towards the creation of an environment and culture on campus where there is a greater emphasis on postgraduate students whose numbers continue to increase and who should be the drivers of cutting edge research in the Caribbean and globally. In this vein, the events hosted by this office are created with the intent to encourage and facilitate such.
Some upcoming events/plans to look out for include the following: 1. “Townhall Meetings” are carded for next semester whereby postgraduate students are given the opportunity to comment on the improvement of postgraduate culture, academics and life directly to the administrative members of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. 2. Thesis writing forums and professional development workshops, aimed at assisting students in managing key areas of their postgraduate academic experience. 3. The Office also plans to initiate an integrative conference for graduate students to discuss issues of regional significance and from it develop a working document. 4. Further dialogue with the Student Support Services Division, lobbying for a World of Work or Job fair for post-graduate students. The Office encourages students to make every effort to attend these events.
by Leslie Sylvester Postgraduate Representative 2011- 2012
More specifically, I have envisioned the office of the Postgraduate Representative as a place that postgraduate students can feel free to visit, express their concerns and feel confident that they will be represented. Thus far we have achieved the following for the first semester of the academic year 2011-2012: 1. The Office was able to assist three postgraduate students in their quests to represent the UWI at international fora. 2. In collaboration with the school of Graduate Studies and Research at the St. Augustine campus the office was able to host two Orientation workshops in September of this year for postgraduate students. 3. On September 16th, 2011, the Office hosted its 3rd annual Welcome Ceremony for new and returning postgraduate students, it was held at the esteemed grounds of the principal’s office. The main objective of the ceremony was to create an avenue for social interaction and networking among postgrad students across different faculties.
“Facilitation of the postgraduate student’s academic and social development, the fostering of a greater spirit of comradery within the postgraduate community and the provision of a number of fora for the exchange of ideas are all integral parts of the vision of this office.”
Nigel Thomas holds the Office of Part-time and Evening Representative o Studies at UWI, St. Augustine main campus and Guidance and Counselli collaboratively with the Evening University, to host a number of events inc continue championing the efforts geared at bridging the psychological gap
NIGEL THOMAS Part-time and Evening Representative on the Guild of Students.
Bio
on the Guild of Students. A graduate student reading for a Msc. in Mediation ing at the UWI, Open Campus. Over the academic year he will be working cluding workshops, an academic seminar, and a cultural event. He aims to p between part-time and evening students and the wider student community.
GAMING ANIME SOCIETY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES gasu.staugustine@gmail.com VETINARY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION vsatt2010@gmail.com MANAGEMENT SOCIETY msu.uwi@gmail.com COMPUTING SOCIETY uwicomputingsociety@gmail.com ROTARACT CLUB OF PIARCO (UWI) rotaractpiarco@gmail.com Geography Club uwi.geography@gmail.com PETROLEUM EXPLORATION SOCIETY cramgattie@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB uwiphotographyclub@gmail.com UWI SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB dean36@gmail.com THE LATIN AMERICAN SOCIETY las.uwi@gmail.com INTER-VARSITY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP abs.uwi@gmail.com BIOLOGICAL SOCIETY uwibiosci@yahoo.com RAJA YOGA MEDITATION SOCIETY uwirajayogameditationsociety@gmail.com MATH SOCIETY sums_math_society_uwi@yahoo.com INTER-VARSITY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP denoon3355@hotmail.com ADVENTIST FELLOWSHIP nfrancis09@gmail.com AFRIKAN SOCIETY uwiafrikansociety@yahoo.com TRICKING enriquefrancis13@gmail.com UWI CHESS CLUB (ST AUGUSTINE) Chessclub.uwi@gmail.com UWI EQUINE CLUB uwi.equine@gmail.com SUMMON summon.executive@gmail.com
Guided by a constitution recently ratified at Council level, the society now operates under the guild as the voice of law within the campus community. The main objectives of the society extend to establishing a strong fraternity amongst the law students within the campus and eventually to fostering regional ties with other legal training institutions in later years. It is responsible for extracurricular activities such as Moots, Debates, and sporting activities to facilitate the holistic grooming of all the students enrolled in the LLB program. Membership to the society is automatic for all registered law students and as such all Law students can and all are encouraged to take part and contribute to the life of this society.
We have poets, actors, sports-persons, debators, dancers... yes, all of that and still law students.
This body was launched in the academic year 2010-2011 thanks to the call of the then year one Law Students. To clarify a misconception, there is no Law Faculty at the St. Augustine campus; what there was, was a one year LLB program that was then completed at the Cave Hill Campus. What we have now is a Three Year program at the St. Augustine campus to exist alongside the development of a full and independent Faculty on this Campus which is intended to be centralised at the Southern Campus being constructed at the Debe location. To this end, the students and the Guild by extension felt it necessary to develop a more independent student representative voice for law students. It was out of all of these factors that the Law Society was born.
This academic year we hosted and plan to host, a series of Academic and non-academic events including a Moot Seminar, Law Sports Day, debate, a play, numerous fund raising activities and played a special part in Social Sciences and Law Faculty Week. The society’s aim is to create an independent culture for law students and to become a recognised and active part of Campus Life. We have poets, actors, sports-persons, debators, dancers... yes, all of that and still law students. Although the Faculty Representative for Social Sciences and Law does stand as the President of the Society, as guided by protocol, within the society there exists an outstanding, fully capable executive body without which the society may not have been created. They have contributed greatly to the establishment, continuity and promotion of the Law Society. These along with many others would have been the faces you saw at this years’ Year One Law Orientation and the persons seated at the faculty booth during the U.W.I Guild Fest. A listing of the full executive can be found for noting and reference at the law faculty building. (Ask for Lisa) I ask the campus to embrace the presence of the society, to take part, and join in our fun. Together, we made it happen, and together we can keep it going. Travis Laugier Faculty of Social Sciences and Law Representative 2011-2012 Guild of Students
Caribbean Integration Week on the other hand is a full five days dedicated to the sensitization of students and staff to the presence of our Caribbean brothers and sisters on campus. The Week is opened by the raising of the CARICOM flags and the first three days are dedicated solely to cultural displays. The fourth day is a massive food fair similar to Taste UWI. However, this time four dishes are prepared making the variety of food to sample from much larger. This year, the Week shall come to an end with a concert where the talents of the associations will be showcased. Like any other tertiary institution, the UWI aims The main aim is to promote the appreciation of to create a wholesome university experience by the various cultures on campus. However, with exposing students to much more than the basic the presence and recognition of Botswana on academic curriculum. Here at the St. Augustine campus now, it is safe to say that the UWI is campus, apart from the various student clubs, expanding way beyond its regional borders. there are eleven active island associations, each formed and ran by students who share a In essence, the UWI can be considered a common nationality. Island Associations not primary advocate of regionalism. The school only promote patriotism throughout campus, functions not only to enhance the academic but they provide a support system for regional knowledge of students but also provide a students who are pursuing their degree wholesome university experience by exposing outside of their respective homelands. Each the learning population to cultures different from Association plans a calendar of events their own. While nationalism will always every academic year which usually be of utmost importance to a country, involves a myriad of activities that regionalism and internationalism are promotes their national culture . more prominent than ever due to the ever enhancing The Office of the International interconnectedness of Affairs Committee Chairperson the world. takes great pride in the promotion of these Associations. Apart from their own activities, they take part in two main events hosted by the Guild, mainly Taste UWI which is hosted annually during Orientation Week and Caribbean Integration Week which is held in the second semester. Both events are judged as competitions and each association is usually motivated to show that they are the best amongst the rest. Taste UWI is one of the most anticipated events of Orientation Week. Each association is required to prepare two dishes from their home for judging Kelsey Turpin-Carrington and sale to the student population. International Affairs Committee Chairperson 2011-2012 The University of the West Indies is an ideal example of regionalism at its best. Four campuses united by the common goal of higher education is what makes the UWI the premier tertiary institution in the Caribbean. Supported by and serving seventeen English speaking territories, this University is a microcosm of the region highlighting a common bond found in the historical processes of colonialism and the fight for independence.
“DomSATT exists to firstly promote the welfare of Dominican students at the various institutions of higher learning in Trinidad as well as to organise and formulate programmes which will expose and highlight Dominican customs and culture. Generally, its goal is to promote and maintain good relations between Dominican students and students from other territories.” - Hanif Gregoire President of the Dominican Student Association of Trinidad and Tobago hgregoire13@hotmail.com
“BASATT hopes to establish a greater relationship and social camaraderie between Barbadian students and to provide additional support to students in need. We anticipate preserving and sharing aspects of our Barbadian culture and heritage with other Caribbean students from the region and the general population of the St. Augustine Campus.” -Jamalia Wyllie President of Barbados Student Association of Trinidad and Tobago jamaliameme@hotmail.com
Bruno Chi President of the Belize Student Association “LuSATT aims to foster togetherness among St Lucian Students at UWI St Augustine Campus and, by extension promote the holistic development of its members. LuSATT will also embark on the necessary activities to promote our rich culture and raise awareness of our presence here on Campus.” -Kohan Dolcy President of the St. Lucia Students Association of Trinidad and Tobago kohdolcy@gmail.com
“JASATT’s vision is to promote the positive aspects of Jamaica and foster friendships amongst students from other Caribbean territories .We also seek to ensure the welfare of Jamaican students studying in Trinidad & Tobago.” - Lenmour Bell President of the Jamaican Student Association of Trinidad and Tobago lenmourbell@yahoo.com
“Our mission as BSA is to be the one organization that Bahamians who are studying abroad can turn to for support in all areas of their life. We will strive to encourage a family environment where all are welcomed with open arms.” -Deandrea Rigby President of the Bahamian Student Association rigby_88@hotmail.com
“LISATT aims to foster togetherness among its members through charity work, luncheons, social events and fundraisers, creating a home away from home. Furthermore, we strive to expose and promote the diverse culture of the Leeward Islands across the St. Augustine Campus through our various events and activities.” -Nneka Hull James President of the Leeward Islands Student Association of Trinidad and Tobago nhulljames@gmail.com
We remember the people of St Lucia who experienced a great tragedy on Thursday 10th 2011 losing the lives of 17 citizens at once in an act of fate that none could have predicted. Four days later the Guild of Students held a candle lighting ceremony where we stood in solidarity as students of a regional institute to show our support for our Lucian brothers and sisters
Peter Khumo President of the Botswana Student Association
“The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Students’ Association of the St. Augustine Campus of the University of the West Indies, VINSA, exists to enhance the academic, emotional, spiritual, social, and economic life of Vincentians studying at the University of the West Indies. ” -Nyoka Ashton President of the Vincentian Student Association nyobabe80@hotmail.com
“TTSA’s purpose is to promote the culture of Trinidad & Tobago and foster an appreciation for our diversity and assist members in matters of concern, specific to their academic, social and other pursuits.” -Marvin John President of the Trinidad and Tobago Student Association marvin_john04@hotmail.com
“It is GSA’s vision to create a truly integrated, harmonious and efficient students` association. We hope to foster and facilitate the academic, emotional, social and economic well-being of the members. Ultimately we aim to create an association of inclusiveness and cooperation that will foster regional integration among the student population.” -Sheldon Noel President of the Grenada Student Association wjnoel@gmail.com
“It is hope, selflessness, and unity of purpose that make our students, old and young men and women, St Lucia nationals and non-nationals stand up in this time of tragedy; when we stand together, we rise together as a people. A great loss such as this can and should be responded to as a regional issue, as we light a Caribbean candle in prayer and compassion for those mourning this loss.” Amilcar Sanatan President of the Guild of Students
MT. HOPE By Carl Spencer
‘Communication’ is definitely the key word when it comes to addressing the relationship between the Mt. Hope Campus and the ‘Main Campus’. I use the term ‘Main Campus’ lightly as it may be for this very reason that we the students at Mt Hope are not kept up to date, informed and even included as it pertains to events at the St Augustine Campus. As a student of the Faculty of Medical Sciences I can attest to the fact that a vast majority of events occur on the main campus unknown to us. How many talks, workshops and panel discussions hosted on main campus have gone unnoticed? How many sporting events, competitions and even parties have passed without ‘Med Sci’ involvement?. It is definitely safe to say that there are only two events hosted by the main campus that everyone here at Med Sci
surely knows about; Campus Carnival and Guild Elections. Additionally a few of us have friends from main campus who keep us ‘in the loop’. For the rest of us, main campus is the dark side of the moon. “The students at the Mt Hope Campus have a tight schedule” one may argue. But why not give us the opportunity to choose. Are the attempts to promote Main Campus events here at Mt Hope sufficient? Is the use of technology in ‘bridging the gap’ at the standard needed and can it be improved? Let’s not get it twisted. Medical Students should not sit back and wait to be spoon fed. We should ask questions and try to get involved more. But please ‘Mr. Main Campus’, make it easier for us. If you really want us to come across to your side, you’ll need to bridge the gap.
BRIDGING THE GAP There have consistently been calls among students of the Faculty of Medical Sciences and Department of Creative and Festival Arts on Gordon Street to “bridge the gap” between them and Main Campus. To this end we asked two students from the respective campuses to give their opinions on and suggestions as to how this problem could be solved. These are their stories…
Over the years, D.C.F.A students have seen themselves facing unique challenges amidst the increasing number of demands across the entire U.W.I population. The usual shuttle service or disservice as I call it is still the major divider for students. Students either face a 30 minute walk from Main Campus to Gordon Street (which I call the “March to Caroni”) or they can wait on the shuttle and reach early. . . for next week’s class. Even with the construction of the Sir Arthur Lewis Hall, the service is inadequate. It doesn’t take a U.W.I degree (that I’m still attempting to attain) for me to recommend that one shuttle can drop both the D.C.F.A students and Hall residents. It would allow a lesser time gap between pickups on Main Campus enabling a regular pick up of students between Main Campus, Gordon St, and Sir Arthur Lewis Hall.
D.C.F.A. By Marcus Ash
Transport issues aside, bridging the gap between D.C.F.A Gordon St. and U.W.I Main Campus actually may not be as difficult as it seems. Here are 3 suggestions that can take minimal effort and may greatly improve relations:1. Volunteers to take new students on a tour of Main Campus, allowing them to get familiar with its activities during recreational hours. 2. Proper Public Relations between both sides, thus promoting much needed communication. E.g. posters/fliers, individuals to inform D.C.F.A’s students. 3. Regular activities normally associated with Main Campus can occur on the beautiful greens of D.C.F.A. which can encourage D.F.C.A students to take interest in Main Campus.
by Kizzy-Anne Boatswain
K C A and B
‘The faithful witness, like…Socrates, Voltaire, and Swift and Christ himself, is at his best when he is questioning and clarifying and avoiding the specialist’s obsession with solution. He betrays society when he is silent…He is true to himself and to people when his clarity causes disquiet.’ - John Ralston Saul ‘Voltaire’s Bastards’ Safety is critical at all levels of education from primary school through university; students who are worried about their safety cannot pay attention to completing their studies. Recent research has proven that what happens outside of the classroom mediates how effective a University’s academic program is. This means that the key to improving learning and personal development is not simply for our faculties to teach more and better but also to create conditions that motivate and inspire students to devote their time to educationallypurposeful activities. Sadly, we at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine bear the burdens of fear while walking to or residing at our apartments off campus. Prior to the induction of the National State of Emergency, the reports of criminal activities against students were rampant. It can be said that the number of incidents drastically decreased during the S.O.E. but this could simply have been because both us and the bandits were indoors sooner. Despite the positives pointed out by many, we had to pay a very high opportunity cost, and that was our ability to study late on campus. This was stripped away as a result of the SOE in the form of the shuttle service stopping at 8PM and the UWI Library closing even earlier. Now that the curfew is over, the possibility exists that the security problems we face as students will escalate once more and therefore we need to be ready. Not only do the students need to be ready but campus security and all staff associated with it need to have strategic plans to counter any crime surge. First and foremost, there needs
to be creation and implementation of a Campus Security Act which is applicable to all tertiary level institutions to ensure that a required mandate for a student friendly environment is met. In addition, statistics related to criminal activity in and around campus need to be released so that we can determine whether we are improving on our standards of security or getting worse. There needs to be increased patrols on and off campus. There can also be utilization of students to assist in on campus patrol in the form of Student Security Officers which has been successful on many other international campuses. We need to reevaluate what is considered to be student safety because a sound mind is critical to quality education and learning hence it is imperative that our basic security needs are met.
Kevin Ramsewak Science and Agriculture Rep. 2010-2011 Vice President 2011-2012 Work never seems to cease, with the continued involvement in student affairs, administrative issues and my personal work, it seems endless. Over the past two years, representation has become a growing passion for me and student governance has been very dear to my heart. Although at times it may seem hectic, these are the things that drive me to provide the ideal learning environment and experience for my fellow peers. It goes beyond the daily procedures of an office and it moves to the place where I have to play a very instrumental role in the lives of students on all bases. I will never regret the day that I was elected into office and the life that followed it. It has produced great demands which I continue to meet head on and I look forward to years to come where I can make a greater contribution to my University and my country.
Kelvin Polson Social Sciences Rep. 2008- 2009 Deputy Post Graduate Rep. 2011- 2012 For most UWI students, balancing one’s personal and academic realities can prove to be demanding. Being a member of the Guild Council can make the problem of balance exponentially more difficult. The responsibilities of the guild require everyday engagement and a level of commitment comparable to a full time job. As an individual serving on council one must seek to satisfy the needs of the students, plan events, work with administration and the other officers of the Guild. At times the demands of a particular post far outweigh the visible rewards but when the rewards come along they often bring great satisfaction. The congratulations from a member of staff, a smile from a peer or “thank you” from a student are the intangible yet valuable, it is this that makes being a Guild councilor a most worthwhile experience.
Even though they are average students, just like the Councilors take on the role of representing the studen to ensure that students’ needs are adequately met and call of duty, staying committed to their respective posts to the name, but such a title brings great responsibilit to some present councilors who have had at least one Here’s an insight into the lives of the Guild Councilo
rest of the population reading for a degree, UWI Guild nt body which they themselves belong to. Working hard d providing a voice for their peers, they work beyond the s. It may all look glamorous, having an office and a title ty, long hours and hard work. We sat down and spoke e full term on council prior to their current appointment. ors of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine.
Travis Laugier Social Sciences Rep. 2010-2012 With 16,000 plus employers, I have a busy life. A life of critics, a life of advisors and a life of service, this is the life of a Guild Councilor. Humility as our guide towards aggressive representation has often put me at odds with both students and administration. However, within my life as a councilor I have learned that there is a line of responsibility that has to be drawn. On a lighter note, and a more pointed one, as a Faculty Representative, I sit on Faculty Board, Academic Board, Boards for various Special Projects and Initiatives, but most importantly, I sit in front of a White Board (always remember we are all students first). Clearly that’s a lot of Boards, so I’m never bored. This is my life, and I thank you for it. Mervin-Alwyn Agiste Public Relations Officer 2009- 2012 I accepted the call to be a student leader on the St Augustine Guild Council with the full knowledge that it would be no easy feat. As a third time councilor the hours only get longer, the issues students face are far more complex and the urgency to strike that balance as a student and a servant to the students is even clearer. No matter the challenges, I see my role on this campus as an opportunity to contribute to student development. So I continue to embrace the experiences on the guild of students in order to ensure that the 16,000 who live within these walls gain a lot more than just a degree‌they gain the university experience.
33
ALVIN MOTTLEY CANADA HALL
CINDY-ANN BECKLES J.G.I. HALL
DWAYNE MILNER
MURRAY R HALL
KENIQUE IVERY ARTHUR LEWIS HALL
TANYA BOUCHER TRINITY HALL
The environment of the Campus has changed and the dynamic of the Halls of Residence has adjusted to suit. Although there are changes, the fundamentals of hall life have continued. As for Canada Hall, the reputation is one above all other halls. My view is never forgetting the past but to use it to help in advancing the hall for the future, to greater the legacy of Canada Hall. As an all male hall, we have been through the storms and wars, and maintained a strong presence on the campus. The students have taken their time to pass through these walls, and upon leaving they look back knowing that they contributed significantly to the hall by way of sports, concert participation, and participation in other hall events. The hall would like to personally thank the members who have passed through and left their footprints. The graduating class of the academic year 20102011 consisted of a number of members of the hall who graduated with first class and upper second class honours. We recognize these students who received first class honours: Reginald Pantin, Adeko Collymore, Akelo Moore, Jermey Jarvis (Hall Chair Person 2010-2011), Kade Peters, and Michael Wilson (the last three having served as members of the hall committee). We were also represented at the award ceremony for the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science Agriculture, there were a number of awardees for best student and best final year project to name a few. Congratulations to all of the members who made outstanding academic achievements. Canada hall has had a few events for the semester so far: a barbecue, church service, inter-floor football matches, the Guaidy tournament team’s matches, and a Habitat for Humanity project. The barbecue was a moment to get members integrating while having a good time with food and drinks. The famous C Hall vs. Milner Hall football match is one event that the campus
Canada Hall represents a wide range of persons from all over the world... “They will come here as boys and leave here as men.” looks forward to. Not to disappoint, the game was action from beginning to end. The annual funeral procession of ‘John Milner’, gave students the spectacle of seeing the members of hall taking the coffin of ‘John Milner’ to the top field. Upcoming events for the next semester are our Hall Concert, Val Dinner and the remainder of the inter-floor sporting events. The hall concert has been anticipated for a while; unfortunately there was no concert last year, but this year’s will be one to remember. ‘UNBELIEVABLE FORCE’ the concert will showcase the talent of the hall. Creativity, innovation, and diversity, even with limited numbers. It will prove the strength of the greatest hall of residence, Canada Hall. The Val Dinner is an appreciation dinner for members of the hall leaving us for future endeavors. Canada Hall represents a wide range of persons from all over the world... “They will come here as boys and leave here as men.”
At the Joyce Gibson-Inniss (J.G.I.) Hall, our vision is to create an international network of professionals rooted by experiences and relationships acquired, relationships that we will strive to extend far beyond our tenure on hall.
More recently, J.G.I. hosted our highly acclaimed annual Hall Concert in which we flabbergasted our audience with the immense talent that medical students can produce while maintaining our studies.
been of significant value to our hall life. General conversations while assembling for our favorite T.V. shows or while waiting on the shuttle, naturally veer towards comparisons to the residents’ native countries, which tends to bring across a greater awareness of other cultures. Block Socials and movie nights, as well as occasional hikes and beach excursions among other outings, are all part of our hall experience. The J.G.I. Fitness Club encourages a healthier hall with activities that include yoga, running circuits and aerobics. The family feeling on our Hall is unparalleled, with much effort placed on initiatives that include all members of our Hall.
in these outlined extra-curricular activities will help to develop all-rounded professionals and establish camaraderie that will prove to be integral in future networking for our residents.
Other activities that the incumbent ...over the With members of just about Committee will be hosting years we Hall every Caribbean nation and even include J.G.I.’s Christmas international countries including our Sports Week have truly Extravaganza, the U.S.A., Canada, Botswana and our Annual Hall Dinner where and England, our Hall boasts we recognize our outstanding Hall proven a synergy of backgrounds that for the year, as well as that we participants has inspired the vision for an bid farewell to the residents that international network of medical be entering their fourth year are: “ONE will professionals that has its foundation also known as their clinical years. in our Hall. The Hall Committee UNIT, ONE We also hope to incorporate an aims to implement activities and environmental awareness event as events that encourage integration STRENGTH, well as a more interactive charity of all our residents and reinforce whereby we acquire a greater ONE FAMILY. event, this objective to our members. appreciation for the people who we have made the decision to dedicate J.G.I.!” J.G.I. offers a diversity that has our lives to serving. Participation
On the scholastic side, our Committee has endeavored to create an academic fraternity, to mould intellects who can readily integrate into our careers. The J.G.I. Big Sib / Little Sib Program sets out to impart advice from peers who have streamed through the medical school experience for at least one year and to facilitate preparedness for school via the sharing of notes and other resources. This initiative aims to make the medical Our first event for the academic year was our school experience less daunting for our residents. extremely successful orientation exercise where we acclimatized new residents to our Hall, At J.G.I. each member of our hall is cherished and University and to the country. The event culminated over the years we have truly proven that we are: “ONE with Culture Clash, where residents showcased UNIT, ONE STRENGTH, ONE FAMILY. J.G.I.!” the vibrant culture of their respective countries.
Milner Hall is the largest and oldest Hall of Residence at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. Our Hall’s long history began in 1927, originally constructed as the official hall of residence for the Imperial College of Tropical Agriculture. The hall was named after, Lord Viscount Milner, the British colonial administrator who pioneered the construction of the college. After starting off with only one block, West Block, the hall now consists of four others. These are North Block, South Block, I Block and the Post Grad Flats.
over 80 years old and deeply rooted in culture and tradition. Milner hall is not simply a place that one comes to rest their head after a day of class, it is indeed a home away from home.
However, living here on Milner isn’t always an easygoing environment. Over the course of the academic year, Milner hosts various events in both semesters. Most recently, Milner has held our annual Hall Concert; the theme, “Euphoria”, which was decided upon by the residents. This event requires a month of organizing (with even more planning) and practice order for the night After these many decades, Milner Hall has to come off without a hitch. But, after all the long continued to adapt and thrive as a part of the weeks of hardship, late nights and tired bones, the university, continuing to foster the development night of the show is worth all that went into it. It and production of multi-talented intellectuals into consists of showcasing the talents of the residents our society. Our Hall Chairperson for 2011/2012, of Milner Hall, in the areas of Dance, Modeling, Dwayne Murray, has emphasized the nurturing of a Theatre, Musicianship and Spoken Word. There family atmosphere on the hall with all is also the added bonus of Milner’s Concert being our residents. All Milnerites an undoubtedly sold out show, year after year, (as we call ourselves) regardless of the venue. It is this that encourages are part of a fraternity our Milnerites to work assiduously every year to bring to the campus community a show that raises the bar for both us and the other places of residence on the St. Augustine Campus. This semester, we have a few other events that are in the works. There is the Sweet Hand Man Barbeque, organized by North Block. This features barbeque dishes for sale prepared by the North Blockites. After which we will be hosting I Cook. This is highly anticipated amalgamation of ideas, giving the true definition of what can only be called a “cultural melting pot” of the various nationalities that make up this co-ed block. Next semester contains some of Milner’s more widely known events, namely, South Block’s Next
“...life on Milner makes UWI life, a life spent with family...for on Milner together we are one.” Top Model and North Block Exposed. South Block’s Next Top Model is a (now nationally acclaimed) modeling show held annually by South Block. It showcases young ladies from the hall going through several challenges leading up to the climax which is the night of the event. North Block Exposed is a male model show and auction held and organized by North Block. Each year these shows are becoming more elaborate and more widely attended, as there is a buzz in the air coming closer to the event days. Another big part of this semester is Milner’s Sports Week. In this seven day period, Milner hosts a number of different sporting competitions exclusively for our residents. These include: football, table tennis, swimming, basketball, aerobics etc. So keep your eyes open for these events, or you can talk to any Milnerites you may know. After you see it once, it might just be something that’s for you. After it all, life on Milner makes UWI life, a life spent with family. They may not be your biological loved ones, but it’s a family that takes care of you and vice versa. It’s the time working on events, eating together, liming together...for on Milner together we are one.
“The Sir Arthur Lewis Hall will be a place where the integration of personalities, nationalities, and interests live together in harmony, whilst developing productive and open -minded perspectives on life.”
to move towards sustainable development. SAL LEADS is a professional development programme with workshops and trips geared towards leadership, ethics, financial planning, among many other topics. The Hall Committee also encourages students to support the environment and the This vision can be achieved in the long term local economy by ‘buying local.’ Twice a week a if constructive dialogue is encouraged that is local farmer brings fruits, vegetables, and ground inclusive of the interests of particular parties. The provisions to the Hall for students to patronize. This Hall will continue to be multicultural in the future, initiative has had much support from the students, and the Hall Committees and Administration and should definitely continue for years ahead. SAL over time should always respect that and take GREEN, is the environmentally conscious brand initiatives that foster the integration that seeks to encourage environmental of residents. For the first friendliness among residents time at the University of be it through hikes, planting the West Indies, trees and herbs St. Augustine on Hall, or poster Campus, the campaigns. following subcommittees are Furthermore now represented our sports on a Hall: programme Environmental and has generated Cultural. Both of much interest which are relevant from the residents; issues that in recently halfmy own opinion court basketball as the first Hall and football Chairperson tournaments are of particular encouraged importance for the fierce and friendly foreseeable future competition among within the University space. Hall residents. These competitions, should be a place where issues are addressed including our participation in GUADIY, will surely and activities done are relevant to the professional intensify by the second semester’s Sports Week. and social spheres that residents will soon encounter. We close the first Semester of 2011-2012 academic year with the development of these As Hall Chairperson one of my key desires is the brands through various internal activities, and our formation of sustainable initiatives. first official party, Final Destination at Maracas Bay. SAL LEADS, SAL MARKET, and SAL GREEN; The cultural portfolio will be of heavy emphasis are three brands the Hall Committee have created for the second semester with our Cultural Show,
which will showcase the talents and cuisines of our region. All three brands will develop within the second semester through various activities and careful brand management, which will facilitate their continuation into the next academic years. It has been my pleasure so far to serve as the first Hall Chairperson, a mentally difficult task but a challenge I have been willing to take for the interest of my creative, vibrant, and bright residents. I sincerely hope that the SAL Hall Panthers will be a model for positive and progressive living for years to come, and I am humbled to be among the first persons to set that in motion.
“The Sir Arthur Lewis Hall will be a place where the integration of personalities, nationalities, and interests live together in harmony, whilst developing productive and open -minded perspectives on life.�
“Togetherness With Harmony”. This is the motto we live by on a day to day basis at Trinity Hall. Our vision is to ensure that the diverse natures, nationalities and talents which make up our Hall will be brought together with the ultimate goal of a splendid on-hall experience. We do not only concentrate on activities but are extremely adamant about educational success. As we graduate and go out into the world, the experience and discipline gained through our culture will surely contribute positively to society. On our proud hall, the dedicated Trinity Hall Committee ensures that many areas of interest are available to each and every resident. These include event planning, sports, photography, and much more. These interests are further explored by the many committees to which every resident is assigned ranging from Cultural and Entertainment, Food and Beverage, Sports and Games, and more. Through these committees we plan and execute both internal and external events, encourage competitiveness, foster professionalism, encourage business like thinking and promote health while pushing for educational success and much more.
Program, initiated by the residents of Trinity Hall along with Part Time and Evening Representative of the Guild of Students, Mr. Nigel Thomas is a program that should be implemented at every hall. We believe in the safety and involvement of each and every resident. In order for the program to be successful in the event of a hazard, some residents have been assigned as fire wardens and will be trained as such. The Library at Trinity Hall is open to every resident holding an array of educational paraphernalia either left behind by past residents or sourced by residents. Here at Trinity Hall, we live by our code, we share responsibilities and live as a family; The Trinity Hall Family. We encourage and support each other and no resident is more or less important that the other. In all that we do, we show “Peace Love and Trinity” This is dedicated to our sister Colette Cummings who we lost on Tuesday 4th October, 2011. Where You Used to Be, There is a Hole in the World, Which I Find Myself Constantly walking Around in the Daytime and Falling into at Night.
During the first semester we have activities such as Hall Orientation, Talent Explosion and Weekly Block Rest in Peace Our Sister- From the Trinity Hall Family Wars, this is the build up to our big Sports day finale held in second semester. The Backyardigan Lime which was held in our yard was a huge success. We will also be having our Annual Hall Production which is called Lights Camera Fashion: Caribbean Woman Evolved during the first semester. To end the year off, we will be having a Christmas party. During the second semester, Trinity Hall will host its Annual Barbeque, Hall Sports, The Miss T-Hall Pageant and The Annual Valedictory Dinner where the residents of the Hall will be recognized for their efforts during their stay on Hall. Ongoing activities include The Trinity Hall Food Park, the Recycling Program and the Fire Safety
by Mervin-Alwyn Agiste A coordinated effort towards mass communication that would serve as a means of providing a sense of intimacy, whilst gauging feedback, has been years in the making. The answer to all the criticism when it comes to the student population not being informed of the services and activities of the Guild has been the Street Team. The process of establishing a functional Team has been painful but the fruits of its rewards have already been felt by both the Team members and the Guild. The main objective of the Street Team has been to create a more personal medium to ensure that the Guild Council will be able to reach students directly with information and sound advice in assisting students with problems faced. The Street Team organizes scheduled walk-a-bouts with Council, canvassing the entire Campus in a coordinated manner with Councilors and Team members speaking to hundreds of students in a day. Team members hold regular meetings to discuss their findings and present them formally in order to gauge feasible solutions. This entire process ensures that the decisions made by the Guild are in fact student centered which will lead to greater participation and ensure that programs implemented by the Guild are diverse and touch many.
The Street Team is set to receive professional training on all aspects of promotion from a business stand point to the promotion of NGOs and their differing events. All members will have the opportunity to interact with leaders in the field to ensure that they cement their public speaking and networking skills. This will aid the Team as the members are mandated to eventually manage one Guild event aimed at training the members of clubs, societies and associations. There are many benefits that are available for Street Team members which include promotion for corporate sponsors, sponsorship from corporate sponsors, free merchandise from the Guild and its sponsors, free admittance to Guild events, free professional training and experience.
For further information on how to be part of the Street Team feel free to contact Mervin-Alwyn Agiste Guild PRO at 786-3702 or email at mervin_agiste@hotmail.com and also at guildpro@mysta.uwi.edu. Join us at the Guild in ensuring that we cultivate a renewed sense of unity and campus pride amongst the student body as it is only “together we can make it happen.�
by Kurba-Marie Questelles
Get Up And Do It Yourself The UWI G.U.A.D.I.Y (Get Up And Do It Yourself) Football League was started over 30 years ago by enthusiastic students who were frustrated by the absence of an organized league at the St Augustine Campus. Now, it is the largest league at UWI, with successful teams over the years being AYM, ABOPPF, Milner Hall, Canada Hall, Med SCI and more; with stalwarts like Public Enemy remaining and upholding the great traditions of continuity. The Hall rivalries continue between Canada and Milner with the hermits being more successful in recent times and the C.Hall – Milner clash, as it is so favourably referred to, being one of the largest attended matches throughout the league. The C.Hall hermits would rather stop the match than lose to the Milnerites. This face-off between both teams is one of epic proportions where, on match day, the hermits lead a procession similar to that of a funeral from their Hall of Residence at south gate, all the way to top field, where the match is held, symbolizing of the death of the Milnerites and hermit victory.
Being the Deputy Games Committee Chairperson this year provided much insight into how much work actually occurs behind the scenes of such a large and ongoing event, from spending hours on end working on match fixtures, ensuring that teams don’t play twice a week or that each team has matches on both fields, to working with all the special requests from team managers with respect to game days, match stats and even team uniforms. With the increase in student intake at the University there was a subsequent increase in team participation this year. Even though there are new teams, what always remains is the core spirit of competition and sportsmanship amongst all players. Today, we advance to a new era with sponsorship of all team kits by Lucozade and a total of fifteen teams participating in the league, inclusive of students, staff and the hard working security guards; the most amount of teams participating since the league’s commencement over 30 years ago. Therefore, it is the belief that with continued support and great players, UWI GUADIY is set to be the most exciting yet!
by Darren Mitchell
The budget was finalized and approved on 21st September 2011, at the Campus Finance and General Purpose Committee Meeting. The overall budget approved for the academic year 2011-2012 was to the sum of TT$3,865,275, while the allocated amount for expenditure for same period is TT$3,508,081 which leaves the budget for the year in a surplus of TT$357,194.
Student Amenity
Allocation
Faculties: Humanities and Education $46,765.00 Social Sciences and Law $50,000.00 Science and Agriculture $49,229.00 Medical Sciences $48,346.00 Engineering $47,000.00 Halls of Residence: Canada Hall $40,000.00 Joyce Gibson-Inniss Hall $45,000.00 Milner Hall $46,000.00 Sir Arthur Lewis Hall $48,000.00 Trinity Hall $40,000.00 Committees: Games Committee $94,526.00 Publications Committee $90,000.00 Inter Club Committee $210,490.00 National Affairs Committee $80,614.00 International Affairs Committee $70,348.00 Students Activities Committee $83,822.00 Part Time and Evening Representative $77,875.00 Post Graduate Representative $92,015.00 Office of the PRO $49,512.00 Office of the President $18,710.00
In preparation of the budget, the method used was to take the actual expenditure figures of the academic year 2010-2011, and increase it by 4%, which is the rate of inflation used across university figures. This gave us the actual figures of projected expenditure and is actually a better model to adopt having seen what was, to see what could be. The guild budget is broken down into Four (4) main expenditure streams:
•Emoluments •Office and General Expenses •Student Amenities •Other Expenses
Emoluments TT$681,253.00 Office and General Expenses TT$505,505.00 Student Amenities TT$2,203,639.00 Other Expenses TT$117,684.00 Total TT$3,508,081.00 The surplus acts as a buffer should any of these accounts go overdrawn.
Above represents the allocated budget to Guild Councilors for the academic year 2011-2012. Please note the Guild Secretary and Treasurer do not hold accounts as signatories.