Impact Report 2014 (draft 2)

university of technology, jamaica

students’ union “To Serve & To Represent”

Mission Motto

“To Serve & To Represent�

Aims & Objectives

1. For the representation of student rights on academic and social issues.

2. The provision of educational, social and sporting activities thus promot-ing unity, and a sense of belonging on the campus.

3. The planning and implementation of such activities which allow for the contribution to the inner community and the wider society through social responsibility.

4. Fostering and improving channels of communication with all levels of administration and the wider community.

5. Assistance to students financially and otherwise with the hope of making studying and the attainment of higher education easier.

Message from the Editor As I began to compose this letter, I realized how quickly my time has passed as the Editor in Chief of the UTech Students’ Union. It has been two years with many rewarding moments, as well as some challenges.

No longer a new kid on the block, I am on my way out ... making space for the next “New Kid “ on the block; making room for other great young budding talents waiting to make their mark on the lives of the student populace.

“To Serve and to Represent” is the mantra of the University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Council and it has been my pleasure aiding to fulfill this legacy. I feel honoured to have been entrusted with the responsibility of being your Editor in Chief for two consecutive years. This legacy of leadership is a tribute to the success and stability of our Students’ Union. I am truly humbled to have worked with some of the most incredibly talented persons right here at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

During the academic year 2013-2014 , we made solid progress on many fronts, including expanding strategic platforms for further development, establishing exciting new ones such as our mobile application and solidifying many corporate relationships. This annual report provides an insightful reflection on the key successes and achievements of the UTech Students’ Union for the past academic year, and underlines the positive changes that have been set in motion to improve the lives and wellbeing of our students.

The publication of this Impact Report signals the end of my tenure in the office of the Editor in Chief of University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union and the beginning of the tenure of the new Editor in Chief, Mr Reuben Burton. I would like to thank the student body and the entire Student Union Council team for your unfailing support.

God bless you.

Dwayne T. Brown - Editor in Chief

Message from the President The University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union has completed its arguably most successful year to date. We are now entering our 56th year and the organisation has grown beyond all recognition since it was first established in 1958. Over the last year, your Union has taken a very professional approach in self-development and technological advancement. We have critically evaluated how we operate and tasked ourselves with changing our structure to ensure greater accountability and a more strategic focus. This distinct change in approach has already proven very successful.

This Impact Report, serves to highlight the huge impact that the UTech Students’ Union has had on the UTech Students populace and the wider Jamaica society. It aims to show the diverse nature of work carried out by your Union and how it not only acts as the life and soul of the University but how it provides critical social support to ensure Students have the most positive experience during their time at here at UTech.

Our achievements would not have been possible without the help of a number of key members of staff within the University who helped facilitate our events and numerous initiatives. We are also extremely lucky to have dedicated permanent secretaries on our team that aid in making everything happen gracefully!

But above all we are privileged to represent such a proactive and motivated student body who make the Union and University what it is.

Greaville Smith President -

Board of E xecutives President - Mr. Greaville Smith 1st Vice President, Academic Affairs - Mr. Jovan Codling Vice President, Public Relations - Miss Delta Wright Vice President, Finance - Mr. Delroy Stennett Vice President, Student Services - Mr. Oshane Hall Executive Secretary - Miss Anelia Nelson

Overview The students of the University of Technology, Jamaica selected me, Mr. Greaville Smith, to represent them as the President of the UTech Students’ Union for the academic year 2013/14. The goals that were set as a team for the academic year were countless however, together, we took a proactive approach to ensure that all our goals were met. In the words of Henry A. Kissinger, “The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been”;this was the general goal, to take the Students’ Union Council and the entire student populace to where they had never been. One cannot profess that this year was easy. Being a leader isn’t a superficial requirement of an individual.

“Leaders aren’t born they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.

And that’s the price we’ll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal” - Vince Lombardi. The life lessons that this prestigious position has taught me are priceless and I must thank the Students of the University for entrusting me with the task to lead them, the Students’ Union Council Members for their hard work and dedication to the tasks that were placed in front of them, and the UTech Administrators who always extended a helping hand to resolve the various issues that we were faced with.

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable... Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals”. Having worked with a spectacular group of individuals this academic year, I can proudly say that the passion and zeal demonstrated through our tireless exertions and struggles led to the fruit of our labour, the achievement of our goals and the putting in place of long term goals for the furtherance of the Students’ Union Council, and the betterment of the Students of the University of Technology, Jamaica. Everyone had his own specific vocation and mission, everyone carried out their own assignments which required fulfillment, everyone’s task was unique as his specific opportunity to implement.

As the Council approached the penultimate chapter of our story, many students questioned our actions as a unit, querying why certain situations were not being made public if problems arose within the Council. I am now taking this opportunity to enlighten you of the reason. Any organization, like the human body, needs every unit functional to survive. The brain does not cast blame on the rectum or anus for not performing excretory duties but instead sends feedback to fix the problem, ensuring that the integrity of the body remains intact and fully functional. Likewise, we never publicized our shortfalls to protect the integrity of our organization, but made up for our shortfalls internally. “An error doesn’t become a mistake until you refuse to correct it…” one of the many quotes that was used to ensure stability and productivity within the UTech Students’ Union for the Academic Year 2013-2014.

Without introducing myself into the portfolios of the rest of the team, I am proud to say that the UTech Students’ Union Council 2013/14 partnered with major brands in Corporate Jamaica for the Academic Year and this relationship brought about positive changes and renovations for the UTech Students’ Union. On behalf of the Students’ Union Council, I would like to use this medium to express our most sincere gratitude to some of our major sponsors who partnered with us since the inception of the 2013-2014 Council, namely: • • • • • •

J. Wray and Nephew Ltd. – Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum Pepsi Jamaica Ltd. – Pepsi and Ting Zip 103 FM Reggae Jamminz Red Bull JIS – Jamaica Magazine

We are grateful for the work that was completed through your contributions and we hope that the relationships forged this academic year will be further enhanced in years to come.

As a Council, we committed to enhancing the four-fold development of our students, promoting an overall holistic program which included development physically, socially, academically, and spiritually.

Accomplishments Initiated an Endowment Policy (see Appendix) for the benefit of students as a long term contingency plan for the students.

The Endowment Policy will allow for the investment of a sum of Students’ Union dues. The terms governing withdrawal from the Capital are within the policy however the interest garnered from this investment will be used to ensure that more funding is available to students in need. (Further information can be accessed at the Students’ Union Business Office.)

Acquired, introduced, and launched Students’ Union Mobile Applications,. The application is available on Android, BlackBerry Legacy, BlackBerry 10 & iOS platforms A Students’ Union Council Benefits Policy was approved by the institution to ensure that Students’ Union Council Members are allowed a 30% fee reduction in Dorm Fees should they opt to reside on Dorm. Students’ Union Council Members will also benefit from a Performance Based Incentive which allows a Council Member to receive an incentive of up to 50% of their tuition for the year they served. A four-fold appraisal system has been introduced to have the President of the Students’ Union, each Council Member, designated members of Staff, and students give feedback into the performance of the Students’ Union Council, dictating the percentage that each Council Member will receive. Students will complete this evaluation online.

Revisions to the constitution to include Western Campus ByLaws, Graduate Students By-Laws, Advisors duties and others were approved. Subsequent to situations which arose further to the approval, further revisions were proposed to make up for the lack thereof. These may be accessed at the Students’ Union Business Office for perusal and indication to accept the changes proposed.

- Student Activity Centre (Barn) Renovation

- Installation of Stage

-Improvement of the Quadrangle (Interlocking Bricks on a level plane)

- Re-setting containers for concessionaires for efficiency

- A 30-40-30% Payment Plan was implemented jointly with the 1st Vice President Academic Affairs, Mr. Jovan Codling.

The UTech Students’ Union partnered with three (3) MAJOR companies landing an exceptional sponsorship deal (J.Wray & Nephew Ltd., Pepsi and Ting, Reggae Jamminz) exceeding all other sponsorship arrangements made in the history of the Students’ Union for the benefit of both the Main Campus and the Western Campus. J. Wray and Nephew Ltd contributed Eleven Million Jamaican Dollars (JMD11, 000,000.00) in products and cash as well as the infrastructural development of the Students’ Activity Centre. Pepsi Cola Jamaica contributed Five Million Jamaican Dollars (JMD 5, 000,000.00) in products and cash, whilst Reggae Jamminz contributed approximately Six Hundred Thousand Jamaican Dollars (JMD 600,000.00) in discounts, cash, and products.

The Offices of the VP Finance and President of the UTech Students’ Union made history in approving for disbursement approximately Nine Million Jamaica Dollars (JMD9, 000,000.00) in bursaries and grants, assisting ALL bursary applicants as well as students with extraordinary requests for financial assistance.

We acquired a bus for the purpose of the Council and our students, increasing efficiency in our duties and making it easier for accessibility to student groups Procurement of an ice machine was done for further acquisition of fixed assets for the Students’ Union Council A need for alternative food options was observed hence an addition of a new lessee was made to provide new food service options and lounging facilities to the students in the space commonly known as the “Greenhouse” Provided storage facilities for the Students’ Union Council so that in future, our fixed asset base will be protected.

Proposals were made to the administration verbally for amendments be made to admissions forms so that students will upon entering the University give the Students’ Union access to their contact information so that information can be communicated to the populace more efficiently Proposed the formal adoption and use of Students’ Union Faculty/ College logos to foster team spirit, and commenced the process to acquire signatures for the approval of the respective logos and colours Fees that were placed on the collection of exam cards if collected late were retracted thanks to our involvement

The Office of Academic Affairs serves as the chief academic and strategy office for the University. To ensure effective serving and representation of the students, various roles and responsibilities rest on the shoulders of the 1st VP Academic Affairs.

There were many accomplishments and many challenges in the 2013-2014 Academic year. We are proud of our accomplishments and the many challenges we faced and overcame.

The following are the major accomplishments for the Office of Academic Affairs for the Academic year 2013-2014.

Accomplishments BETTER CLASSROOM CONDITIONS Students from the Faculty of Engineering who sat the engineering statistic examination in the newly constructed SHTM building which is used an examination room 18C1 from the School of Hospitality and Tourism did not felt the warm welcome as expected. The matter was communicated to my office and after meetings with Deputy registrar Mrs. Deane and the examination assistant registrar Mrs. Robinson I can safely say all the classroom on the SHTM building have suitable classroom settings.

DEGREE ACCREDITATON The issue of accreditation of degrees offered by the University of Technology was brought to me and then I brought it academic board. It was agreed that is a broad based issue that affects a number of our students. I have followed up on the matter and to date there has been an increased in the numbers of Degrees that are accredited at the University of Technology EARLY CHARGES COLLECTION OF EXAMINATION CARDS. The University misguided the students by collecting a late fee charges before the stipulates time that was in the Students’ Handbook I brought the matter to administration of the University and it was agreed that it was an error and the students who paid the late fees charges were refunded and those that didn’t pay were advised not to pay.

CLUBS & SOCIETIES TIME The matter of schedule classes between the schedules Clubs & Society Time is an on-going issue that I brought to the attention of Prof. Morrison and Academic Board. I was caution that it was a policy and as such the policy should be enforced, so I am going encourage you to make a formal report if the breach of this policy occurs in the new academic year 2014/2015.

EDUCATION DAY, FACULTY OF EDUCATION & HUMANITIES Partnering with Faculty of Education & Humanities Students representative committee with the planning and execution of their inaugural Education Day was a day I would always remember by getting sponsorship and their key-note speaker, I also participated in the Days activities and it was a success.

ACADEMIC FORUM An academic affairs forum was held on the 10th of October with the assistant of my committee and members from council the aim and objective of this forum was to inform students about their rights, academic integrity among other topical issues and with the assistance of the Deputy Registrar Mrs. Mercedes Deane it was successful.

SECURITY BY THE FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT The issue of security was to me by the CSA and Building Students Representative and I brought the matter to Academic Board and the hindrances that were preventing the action was identified and at my final academic board the increase security recommendations that were approved and will be implemented in short order ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT INQUIRY PANEL With the assistance of my advisor Mr. Ivan Godfrey all the cases that were scheduled by the examination division with students’ allegation of cheating had a students’ Union representative ensuring that the students were fully represented by the academic affairs division. There have a been a reduction in the amount of cases that involved students misconduct in examination and I can safely say this is a result of a campaign that was launch in 2012/2013 The Know Your Right (KYR) campaign and it continues to ensure students know their rights.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY ACADEMIC BOARD MEETING As member of one of the university highest boards, the Academic Board I have communicated all issues and concerns that have to do with the betterment of the academic lives of us students and ensured that holistic development of our students was in minds of board members. I attended a total of four (4) academic board meetings and these meeting gave me the opportunity to make recommendations that got approval and consideration that were in the best interest of students.

Accomplishments PUBLIC FORUM: CONTINUITY VARIATION AND CHANGE On April 4, 2013 the public forum themed: “Continuity, Variation and Change: The Effects of Student Leadership” was successfully executed. The forum was aimed at introducing the 2013-14 Students Union Council and it was held in the Sculpture Park. The forum was also aimed at launching the Students’ Union Streaming Station: “UTech Live”, however due to electrical outage that component of the forum was not executed. There were many complications, however they did not hinder the execution of the event.

PUBLICITY Numerous radio interviews were done for Teach the Youth on Nationwide 90 FM, ZIP 103 FM and News Talk 93 FM. Also two Press releases were sent out for Teach the Youth. The radio interview done on ZIP FM also featured the Tag Drive programme.

ORIENTATION During the orientation period the Public Relations committee assisted with the maintenance of the Students’ Union booth, the dissemination of our newsletter as well as the collection of student information for a student database. The student database was developed consisting of both new and returning student contact information. The information was passed on to the President, the Executive Secretary and the Administrative Supports. A quarterly report was also drafted in an effort to allow for a constitutional change that quarterly reports be done every quarter and published to our stakeholders. Student populace NEWSLETTER: “DI UNION” In the last week of July, the Office of the Vice President Public Relations launched the Students’ Union Newsletter called “Di Union”. This newsletter was focused on Teach the Youth and it was disseminated via an electronic medium to students, sponsors, Council Members, the University Administration as well as other stakeholders. Since then we have received numerous feedback on improvements to the newsletter as well as sponsors who want to assist us with other events.

TEACH THE YOUTH ON SMILE JAMAICA A television interview was done on Smile Jamaica to talk about the phenomenal work that we do each year in summer under the Teach the Youth Programme. Myself and Mr. Jerome Graham, Director of Community Service, did a great interview. We highlighted the strides of the Council over the years, how beneficial the programme is to everyone involved, the sponsors that came on board and the general overview of the programme. After the Smile Jamaica interview we would have been in two major areas of media; television and radio.

Thanks to all those who assisted in the process.

ASSOCIATION OF CARIBBEAN HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATORS (ACHEA) CONFERENCE This conference was held from July 11- 13, 2013 at the Hilton Hotel in Montego Bay, St. James. The Conference was geared towards educating Tertiary Education Administrators about the changes that were taking place in tertiary education regionally and internationally.

It was also a forum to share best practices and devise innovative solutions to problems that limit growth. The conference was also a good platform for networking with other Tertiary institutions. Over Twenty institutions from seven countries were represented. These countries included but were not limited to; Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda etc. The Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, Minister of Education, was a presenter at the conference and he made mention of many of the problems we currently face in our tertiary education system here in Jamaica. He also made mention of some of the solutions he has already implemented and ones he wishes to implement. One of the issues he raised was that of teachers delving into different studies apart from their speciality when given study leave. His solution is to only fund those that stay within their area of speciality. Another issue he looked at was that of tertiary funding.

His solution to that was to have banks and credit unions talk to parents/ guardians about saving for their child’s tertiary education from the moment of birth or even conception.

Our very own President, Mr. Greaville Smith, was a panelist in one of the discussions. The topic for discussion was: “New Approaches to Higher Education; The Emerging Frontier.” He spoke about distance learning and the benefits it could have in alleviating high tertiary education costs, as well as in-cooperating the use of technology. With this he noted that the use of technology with distance learning would make tertiary education accessible to all. Also outlined was the fact that systems would have to be in place to ensure that the quality of learning received online is just as good or even better than that received in the traditional method of face-face classroom delivery. The panel discussion elicited a lot of questions from the audience and Mr. Smith did represent the tertiary students of Jamaica well.

It was a great achievement of this 2013/14 Council to have four representatives at the conference. It was indeed a phenomenal stride as we were the only student lead body present and we represented not only the students of UTech but also all tertiary students in Jamaica.

Job Well done!

It is an honour to have served as the VP Finance for the Academic year 2013/14. I deemed it necessary to assist with the Annual Report by providing a comprehensive annual financial review to aid in with the campaign for transparency within Student Government. To facilitate the day to day operations of the Students’ Union Council the Finance Committee and I have worked deligently to enhance the processes and procedures that the Office follows to manage the Councils finances. When I started out as the VP Finance in April 2013, one of my main priorities was to sabilize the financial operations of the Students’ Union by building the relations between the Universitys Department of Finance, seeing that the Department of Finance has sovereign control our funding.

Please see the Financial Statements on page _ _ - _ _.

University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

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Accomplishments ACQUSITITION OF ASSETS

Since the start of the 2013/14 academic year, the Students’ Union has acquired a variety of assets, ranging from a coffee machine in the Business Office, two (2) washers and one (1) dryer for the Students Laundromat,two (2) banners, tents, tables & chairs. Items such as tents, tables & chairs were acquired due to the fact that whenever an event is being hosted by the Students’ Union or any other club or society, these item were not readily available and had to be sourced externally. The continuous renting of these items was realized to be very expensive, thus it was deemed necessary for the acquisition. Now any registered club and or society can visit the Students’ Union Business Office and make a request to use them as necessary.

NISSAN BUS

As it relates to transportation, the acquisition of a 2013 Nissan Bus was initiated. The bus will serve mainly on the Western Campus as students there have no means of transportation, unlike Papine where the University’s fleet is partially available to students. The value of the bus is $7,215,000.00 and the Vehicle maintenance and Upkeep is $1,500,000.00. The bus should be at the Western Campus by March of 2014.

BURSARIES & GRANTS

Grants, Bursaries and Scholarships help students to pay for their education while at UTech. This Academic Year the budget was increased by $500,000 per semester to allow student bursaries. Even with this increase, the cry from the students forced the Council to bend the budget even more and provide an additional amount of $700,000. With the aid of our VP Student Services, Mr Oshane Hall the semester one bursary total was $3,150,000. As it relates to Scholarships, all were increased by $20,000, the total value of each Students’ Union Scholarship this year is $130,000.

BRANDED ASSETS

In an attempt to increase the Students’ Union presence to the students on campus and the wider society we have chosen some Key branded Items to add to our assets log:

Two (2) Feather Banners ($81,000.00)

Two (2) Lit Metal Union Branded Counters for use at our social events ($198,000.00)

One (1) Lit LED Sign to be used at Union events (sponsored By Doj Marketing)

Two (2) Branded Wray & Nephew and Ting Counters (Sponsored By Wray & Nephew /Ting)

One (1) Lit LED Dj Face for Use at events (sponsored by Wray & Nephew /Ting

Two (2) pairs of Feather banners for both Western Campuses

Overview Wow! What a year it has been! I am proud to say that I have been a part of a very productive and determined group of people that made so many sacrifices for the students they served.

The group to which I refer is the UTech Students’ Union Council 2013-2104. This Council was guided by the theme: “Representation Beyond Expectation… Endless Service” and lived up to it exceptionally.

“Executives are like joggers. If you stop a jogger, he goes on running on the spot. If you drag an executive away from his business , he goes on running on the spot, pawing the ground, talking business. He never stops hurtling onwards, making decisions and executing them” - Jean Baudrillard. This is the attitude with which I approached my tasks for the Academic Year.

The Executive Secretary’s portfolio is one which acts as the backbone of the organization.

It was my duty constitutionally to record the meetings of all boards for the Students’ Union Council, maintain the Students’ Union Business Offices and organize specific events. This allowed me to be what seemed like a personal assistant to each Council Member, which made me privy to all relevant information that needed to be relayed to the rest of the Council and by extension, the student populace. As such, updates to the social media pages became more frequent.

The Executive Secretary is required to outfit the Students’ Union Council with their uniforms and required paraphernalia to complete their duties. This was done in a timely manner and all Council Members were suited for their respective events.

The Executive Secretary’s Portfolio for the academic year 2013-2014 was centered around two aspects: Improvement and Implementation. This however did not restrict my activities or limit them to these aspects. I was the first Executive Secretary in the knowledgeable history of the Students’ Union to represent students on the Academic Misconduct Investigation Panel and the Student Appeals Committee. It was my responsibility to try to improve the services provided at the Students Union’s Business Office hence new services were also implemented.

To ensure that customers (students) were attended to in a timely manner, an additional computer was installed allowing for multiple print jobs to be completed. Customers were previously required to stand whilst they were served, hence, a seating area was installed to ensure that customers/ students were comfortable while they waited. A coffee machine was installed for added comfort and as a means of providing a warm beverage to customers.

The events hosted by the UTech Students’ Union under the Executive Secretary’s portfolio included Teach The Youth Opening Ceremony, Teach The Youth Closing Ceremony (New), and Tag Drive Launch (New). The final event hosted under my portfolio was the official Students’ Union Council Handing Over Ceremony. Though tedious the task to plan and execute these events, all were successful.

Many may feel that the job of the Executive Secretary is an easy one. The work of the Executive Secretary, in fact, is never done. It takes time, hard work, sleepless nights, and a passion for service to represent and ensure that all tasks are completed on time. It was a pleasure serving the UTech Students’ Union Council and in turn the Students of the University of Technology, Jamaica. I feel overwhelmed with emotion when I think of the achievements of this Council for the betterment of you our Students.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your success as students through the work of the Students’ Union Council 2013/2014 and the opportunity to serve you this academic year. I hope that the services rendered by my portfolio will only continue to exceed your expectations.

B o a r d o f R e p r e s e n tat i v e s College of Health Sciences - Miss Shayon Palmenr Faculty of Law - Mr. Jevoughn Smith Faculty of Education & Liberal Studies - Miss Mona Lisa Roberts School of Engineering - Mr. Phillip Hugg School of Computing & Information Technology - Miss Monique Chen School of Hospitality & Tourism Management - Miss Shawna Kay James School of Business Administration - Mr Cory Phidd School of Building & Land Management - Mr Darrian McGhann Caribbean School of Architecture - Mr Andrew Blackwood Faculty of Science & Sport - Mr. Rashawn Martin Joint Colleges - Mr. Dimitri McGregor Western Campus Students Representative - Mr. Jenardo Walker Hall Chair - Miss Rochelle Ferguson International Students Representative - Mr. Cole Debique

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

Pharmacy, Nursing, Dietetics and Nutrition, Medical Technology, Child and Adolescent Development, Health Information Technology, Health Administration and Complementary Medicine.

Shayon Palmer - Student Representative 2013/14

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hough we are represented by the Cobra whom is shy and secretive in nature, College of Health Science student populace are also aggressive and strong; the part of us that we place in our academia to be successful.

After 52 weeks of being the elected student representative for the College of Health Science, there was much achievement not without challenges and obstacles though. Despite the challenges that presented themselves, many duties were done, and done with the students in mind.

ACHIEVEMENTS FROM MY TENURE ARE AS FOLLOWS: •Assisted students with registration issues, delisted issues and assistance in finding financial avenues.

•Gears (uniformed vest where jerseys were not available, socks for teams), equipment (shink guards) and rehydration fluid (Gatorade) provided for students participating in sporting activities.

•Regular and constant communication and updates to the various group emails. Emails informed students of scholarships, grants, bursaries, deadlines, and upcoming events.

•For the first time a grant will be coming directly from the desk of the college student representative to a needy student in the College.

•Medical Technologist students complained about not having enough equipment for their laboratory, a set of Haematocymeters were ordered in the month of March 2014.

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University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

•Students will be receiving a refund from the E-book payments they had made.

•The water cooler on the College building was serviced and is now in use for the students.

•The advisement of the College having its own program payment plan; in the aid to make payment easier for our students and not be too dependent on the University’s payment plan that seems to change on a regular basis.

•There is now a student representative name plate; this is set to continue over the years to be a mark for all student representatives to come.

•Ray of Sunshine – a means by which students are celebrated and highlighted for their exceptional honesty. Not just in our College but in the entire University.

•Through an agreement between myself and SUC (Student Services), a bus was made available to transport the nursing students to their practical sites at a reduce cost.

•Internet is finally on the Barnet Clinic premises for the students.

•The restrictions to the computer labs in the Western Campus have been removed and the nurses in the West have more access.

•Science (COHS & FOSS) was placed first in the Sports Day activities.

•Science was placed third in the cheerleading competition. We were awarded prizes for best costume and best banner.

•The events that were held for the year were ‘Red Light Green Light’, a collaborative effort with the School of Business Administration, ‘Science Carwash’, ‘Science Experiments:Testing your Love Potion’, Mass Devotion and Soda Machine Social.

•Big sister – big brother program was being motivated again and is now in effect with the Pharmacy student group.

I knew I had the ability to achieve the object of my definite goal, to serve you the students. I served with dedication, devotion, determination professionalism and confidentiality to represent and fight for the students of my College. However, I could not have done it alone; I wish to commend Roxann Rose, Shanna-Kay Brown, Melicha Smith, Keresha Markland, Denver Clarke and in extent to my entire committee. Special and great thanks to Darrielle “Biggs” Cummings and Stephan for their continued support and dedication towards our cheerleading team.

‘Team work makes the dream work’.

United we stood together and we made a great year. As Khamoye Williams takes on the baton and aim at maintaining and even bettering our unity, let us extend our support and make it another beautiful year. And always remember, with God in our vessels we can smile at any storm.

“Excuses are monuments of nothing, those who use these tools of incompetence are masters of nothing themselves (NYS)”

University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

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FACULTY OF EDUCATION & LIBERAL STUDIES School of Technical and Vocational Education, Department of Liberal Studies, Communication Arts and Technology

mONA LISA ROBERTS- Student Representative 2013/14

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he end of this academic year not only marks the end of my tenure as faculty representative, it also marks the end of my time as an undergraduate student at the University of Technology, Jamaica. The time I spent here will always be in my heart as some of the best times in my life to date. Being able to represent the students of my faculty in the final year only added to the experience.

FELS is a force to recon with. We might be the underdogs many times or smaller when compared to other faculties but our presence in the university is always felt. I leave these words with the incoming representative and his committee “The only thing that stands between a man and what he wants from life is often merely the will to try and the faith to believe that it is possible.’ Richard M. DeVos. No man is an island, or in my case no woman, so I must acknowledge the following persons: Special thanks to the staff of Facilities Management Department (FMD) who carried out all my request, the staff at the Safety and Security department, the administrative staff at FELS who assisted when they could and also thanks to my committee who worked with me and my constituent who allowed me to serve them. I must also thank the Students Union Permanent secretaries and the Student Union Council Member 2013-2014 who for the most part have become more like family and will never be forgotten.

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University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

I leave this post with no regrets and many lessons learnt. I leave this post a stronger woman and a more confident person. God has carried the 2013-2014 council to the end of their tenure in one piece and will do the same for the incoming council. I wish you a prosperous tenure. God bless you all.

SCHOOL OF COMPUTING & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Monique Chen - Student Representative 2013/14

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cademic year 2013/2014 was a challenging but successful one.

There were a lot of planned events that did not materialize, however there were those that turned out to be a success.

The year started off with our first event, the First Year Social.

This was a ‘get together’ held to introduce the incoming first year students to their school representatives and to mix and mingle with their peers. Here the first year students were sensitized and made aware of important issues such as academic advisement, academic probation and situation that will lead to being discontinued.

Following the social was our first major event, AlgoRiddim held on Saturday, October 5, 2013 at the Student Activity Center. An event of this caliber was the first held by the School of Computing in the last 4 years.

We had planned to have our annual Bubbles Car Wash which was originally postponed then cancelled for reasons beyond our control.

SCIT LAN Party was held at the Green House on Friday, November 1, 2013. We received positive feedback from participants regarding the event.

The final event that was planned for the semester 1 was the party Stress Free. This party was supposed to be held at the end of the semester; however it was cancelled due to security reasons.

The UTech Students’ Union hosted the annual Inter-Faculty Debate, an event we were encouraged to participate in. Our team attended a number of the debate workshops in preparation for the competition but unfortunately it was not enough to secure victory, however we were well represented.

We participated in the Inter-Faculty Football tournament.

Our male team did exceptionally well, and with hard work, dedication and training they made it to the semi-finals. Though they did not win the competition, they did secure fourth place and as such we are proud of their efforts.

The Netball team did not advance to the finals however, they played well. Overall the first semester of the academic year was a long one. It was accompanied with a lot of challenges as well as opportunities. A lot of mistakes were made and many lessons were learnt. But with hard work and dedication, we overcame most of the challenges and the semester was considered a success.

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For Semester 2 there were a few events that were planned but based on situations beyond our control they were cancelled. These include the SCIT WATA Party and the black history event. The office had decided to cancel the Water Party based on general agreement and the Black History event was not approved and as a result it was cancelled.

Leading up to the cheerleading, we hosted the Splash Car wash which was aimed at raising funds for the cheerleading. The next big event that we participated in was the Student’s Union Cheerleading competition. Our team worked hard, and though it too had its challenges we excelled as we were placed fourth. We also won the section prize of best stage performance.

Finally, our most recent event held on March 19, 2014 was the annual SCIT Olympics. This event was a huge and incredible success thanks to the help we received from our various sponsors, participants and spectators. We hope we can make the event even better next year.

During the year we made profits from our daily sales at SCIT. We benefitted greatly from this as funds were use to aid in all other event we hosted. We were also able to purchase well needed fixed assets for the office. I am proud to say that because of our fund raising efforts we were able to assist students financially as it relates to tuition, lunch and accommodation.

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SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY & TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Shawna Kay James - Student Representative 2013/14 (acting)

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emester one of 2013 was not a very successful year for SHTM in the sense of milestone accomplishment, the significant portion of our time allotted was spent mending what was once a disjoined faculty busting a wide array of talent and personality but lacking vision and leadership.

I’m happy to report that after months of hard work and dedication we are now standing together as an engine (no pun intended) and a finely tuned one indeed.

With this new found unity and drive we intend to approach 2014 empowered to venture beyond the box and to shift the status quo.

With that said let me take the time to recap SHTM 2013 and/or reiterate where needs be.

In 2013 our ventures were few but successful including but not limited to the following: “SHTM SOCIAL” was successful which was held at the green house on the 27 of September. Our shortfall was that we lacked the full support from students and staff due to a strike. We only had one (1) issue with the event we didn’t get the full support from students of faculty because of the strike.

On the 7th of November”SHTM Car” Wash was held at the UTech student’s union barn activity center. Full support for the event was lacking as a result of the weather. Due to the weather we didn’t get the full support as projected.

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SCHOOL OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Cory Phidd - Student Representative 2013/14

I

t has been a trying year, to say the least. The ups and downs of this roller coaster ride never seem to stop. However, I must give large amounts of credit to my committee members. They have worked tirelessly to ensure our success. I must also say many thanks to all persons who participated in sporting activities. You are the reason so many other members of the school populace are proud to be students of SOBA and JDSEEL. This review is segmented in the following categories: Asset Acquisition, Events and Sports.

ASSET ACQUISITION During my time as representative I have invested in the following fixed assets: 2 sports igloos 2 blenders A printer and a fridge were also sponsored by the committee as well as other stationary items. Such assets are vital to the operation of the portfolio and I hope that the incoming representative will put the necessary asset management measures in place to ensure that these assets are protected.

EVENTS Red Light Green Light – Mardi Gras Madness This event was aimed at fostering unity between SOBA and COHS. It managed to achieve more than was expected because it was the most profitable event within the portfolio and it catered well to the social development of our students. This event also set the pace and standard for the events that followed.

College Xplosion

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This event was held for the first time and was well received.

It was also another profitable event under the portfolio. This event added to the funds within the account and was used as a means of offsetting some events that followed.

Religious Forum Our first ever religious forum was held in LT4. The purpose of this event was to reach out and cater to the religious development of the student within the faculty. The planning of this event was headed by Miss Shari Watson (Spiritual Development Coordinator for the SOBA/JDSEEL Representative Committee).

This forum symbolizes a step in the right direction for SOBA/ JDSEEL and builds on our vision of holistic development.

DENTON “SHEDDON” HAUGHTON MEMORIAL FOOTBALL MATCH In 2012 we lost a student (Denton “Sheddon” Haughton) in a terrible car crash. Mr. Haughton was known for his years of service to the faculty via sports and entertainment. After his death, the representative at the time Mr. Rohan Daley started the Denton “Sheddon” Haughton Memorial Football Match.

The football match brings current and past students together and provides currents students with the opportunity to network with past students. The aim is to make this an annual event as there is now an official Denton “Sheddon” Haughton Memorial trophy.

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT In December a team of volunteers headed by Miss Lewanna Harrison (Community Service Co-ordinator for the SOBA/

JDSEEL Representative Committee) went to the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre to carry out a day of community service. This was the first of its kind within the SOBA/JDSEEL Representative portfolio and it was aimed at fostering personal development through volunteerism.

BIZAD CAR WASH This annual event is aimed at raising fund for the Inter-faculty Cheerleading Competition. The competition is very expensive and costs the SOBA/JDSEEL Representative Portfolio approximately $300,000. It is for this reason that we ensured that all our fundraising events were profitable.

C.T.B. : COLLEGE THROW BACK This event was held for the first time and was also aimed at raising funds for cheerleading. The concept of this event was a unique one.. It took the theme of a throwback/retro party. The event was also profitable and contributed significantly to cheerleading. The aim was to make this event an annual event and to continue benefiting from the niche market that it has.

COBAM WEEK OF EXCELLENCE FOOTBALL COMPETITION This football competition was designed to get more students involved in the COBAM Week of Excellence celebrations. It was decided that we would for the first time host a competition that invited students from all three schools (SOBA, JDSEEL, and SHTM) to compete. The competition was held in March and the students appreciated the competition. The feedback was positive and hopefully the interest in the competition will continue.

SPORTS The School of Business Administration has a history of doing well in sports. This academic year 2013-14 was not different; we remained very competitive and showed why we are a force to reckon with. The following table shows where we finished in the respective sports:

Sports

Position

Male Football

2nd

Female Football

2nd

Netball

2nd

Cheerleading

5th

Sports day

2nd

Cricket

3rd

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SCHOOL OF BUILDING & LAND MANAGEMENT

Darrian McGhann - Student Representative 2013/14

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t was an honor and esteem privilege to serve in the capacity as School of Building and Land Management Student Representative for the 2013/2014 academic school year. As an elected member for the Students’ Union Council, I was humbled by the opportunity given to me to provide service to the students of the University of Technology, Jamaica. Being a Students Union Representative it is by law that I cater to the academic, social, spiritual, entertainment and sport development of each and every student as best as possible.

ACHIEVEMENTS UP TO DATE Academic •Assisted SBLM students who had registration issues.

•Assisted SBLM students who requested Deferrals, Withdrawals, Leave of Absence.

•Assisted a student who was unable to sit a module that he paid for in the first semester (AY 2013/14) to sit it in the second semester (AY 2013/14) without the attachment of any fee.

•Through joint efforts between the CSA representative and I, we were able to convince the FOBE administration in improving the level of security on the Faculty.

These include: oThe installation of swipe systems in the CSA studios oThe installation of a camera on the SBLM second Floor

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oThe installation of four cameras at the Faculty’s western end parking area (Island Grill end) oAn additional security guard who will be roaming the top floors during the nights.

•Obtained a special classroom for SBLM students to study or complete assignments during the nights. This classroom was obtained due to the fact that students were not given the opportunity to use the classroom spaces beyond 9 pm.

•Assisted students in the preparation for their first semester exams by keeping classes in the night.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT •Ensure that all Clubs and Societies that bridge the gap between students of the respective clubs and Individuals from the corresponding profession are registered under the Students’ Union for the Academic Year.

•Hosted drink-ups that saw scores of SBLM students congregating in one area.

ENTERTAINMENT DEVELOPMENT (FUNDRAISING EFFORTS) •Was successful in raising over J$150,000 from the hosting of the student Fundraiser called “INCHES”.

•Successfully hosting and commencing a Dutch Auction that generated over $35,000.

SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT •Hosted a religious forum called “Wrap Session” SPORTS DEVELOPMENT •SBLM were crowned champions in the inaugural Students’ Union Inter-Faculty Beach Competition •Semi- Finalist in the Students’ Union Annual Inter- Faculty CRICKET COMPETITION •Semi- Finalist in the Students’ Union Annual Inter- Faculty Female Football Competition •Fourth place finishers in the Students’ Union Annual Inter- Faculty swimming competition.

•The SBLM Male Football team was a quarter–finalists in the Students’ Union Annual Inter-Faculty Football Competition.

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS: •Was voted as the “Representative of the Semester” for semester two (2).

•Recently elected as the 1st Vice President, Academic Affairs for the 2014/2015 Academic School year.

To add to this, I strongly believe that development does not take place over night and in order for us to achieve development each and every student must act as an integral part. The School of Building and Land Management is made of several different divisions, each providing one or more comprehensive courses of study. In my perspective, the format contributes to the lack of cohesion within the faculty. Fostering integration within the school among fellow Stallions (SBLM students) was a sentiment that I shared with my committee, as we executed and planned events that will aid in the resolution of this issue that was plaguing the school.

I Darrian Anthony McGhann can attest to the fact the post was not occupied by an individual who thinks about himself but also think about the persons who he serves. I tried my utmost best to serve in the elected capacity of SBLM Student representative with all my effort. I appreciate the support of my committee and my fellow school mates. Without these person I would not have achieve the afore-mentioned objectives. So I want to extend appreciation to all the persons for their unwavering support throughout my tenure.

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CARIBBEAN SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE

Andrew Blackwood- Student Representative 2013/14 INITIATIVES Lobbied for student security systems - From the beginning of the semester the issue of security was of strong concern seeing that students that utilized the Design Studio spaces at the Caribbean. The matter was brought to the relevant authorities and the matter was resolved. Approved, is the Big Sister/Big Brother Program - The Big Brother/Sister program which has been initiated a few years ago has been successfully this year especially between the first and second year. With evidence of first and second year students sharing the same design studio space they were able to assist each other, especially since each new student was assigned to a senior student to guidance..

CSA 25 clothing - The Students’ Representative Committee of the Caribbean School of Architecture has placed forward a design for a shirt for the student populous that marks students as being a part of its 25th anniversary cohort of students.

Architecture Symposium This event was hosted on the 14th of November 2013, and it was a success. The Member of Parliament for Eastern St. Andrew, Andre Hylton was invited to make a presentation on the Papine development project that has been planned and tendered to parliament. The proposal as stated by MP Hylton was to redevelop Papine into a University Town. This proved necessary as this region of metropolitan Kingston housed a

SEMESTER 1 Archi-Cupz Drink up- Integration Edition This was the first successful event of the year for the entire school populace with the inherent purpose of reuniting students from over the summer period and for reasons of integrating new with returning students. It was hosted on the 31st of August. It brought forth students of all years in the first Year Design Studio space which was precedence to the type of camaraderie and patriotism we wanted to maintain in our school. variety of tertiary institutions and by virtue of the need for social gathering among these schools, the University Town 32

University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

would be the central hub of the region.

The event prove to be successful as the students of the faculty were highlighted of the future development that would occur within Papine, by virtue of them being students of the Built Environment within the University. Consequently, students were now able to communicate to others the plans for Papine Square.

SEMESTER 2 CSA Week CSA week was an inaugural event hosted by the committee in appreciation to the 25 years since establishment of the School. The week consisted of Alumni/ Student’s mingle, CASA Club Model Mani, Island Vibes, Karibbean Kuhlaz, Panthers Premier League .

Alumni/ Students Mingle The Alumni/ Student’s Mingle was hosted on the Monday on the CSA grounds and brought together students, Administrative Staff and members from the Caribbean School of Architecture Alumni. The event was successful as the purpose of the event was manifested, and students were able to communicated with lectures on a more casual basis.

CASA Club Model Mania The Second event was the CASA Club Model Mania. It was an event that brought together past students and present students putting on exhibit their design models built for Design Studio. This event was also successful as passersby were able to see the quality of work that CSA Students produced while at school. Students were also privileged to present a few of their work to the audience.

Island Vibes, Tie and Hat Day Frenzy The third event was Island Vibes, Tie and Hat Day Frenzy. This is the day students were asked to wear their ties to represent their respective Alma Marta.

Karibbean Kuhlaz Spectrum Edition The other event was Karibbean Kuhlaz Spectrum Edition. This is CSA annual soca party held at the Students’ Activity Centre which rationalized its inherent nature by evidence of the variation of students that were from different Caribbean islands, of whom were a part of the Caribbean School of Architecture. The initial intention was to create a party that would suffice the cultural needs of the collective CSA Students by virtue of their respective nationality.

Panther’s Premier League (PPL) The following day of event sought to gather together all other football fans from CSA. The event was dubbed Panthers Premier League (PPL). The teams involved were Architectural Studies year group 1 (AS 1), AS 2, AS 3, AS 4, and as efforts to foster greater faculty integration the School of Building and Land Management (SBLM) was invited to enter the competition with 1 team. The day’s events ended with SBLM emerging victors of the event and AS 4, A S 1, AS 2, AS 3 finishing second, third, fourth, and fifth respectively.

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JOINT COLLEGES

Dimitri McGregor- Student Representative 2013/14

A

n efficient committee of fifteen (15) students was formed.

This committee worked assiduously to see the issues at Joint Colleges resolved, and has also increased the visibility of Student representation, at the Faculty level.

I lobbied for increased staffing at the College of Oral Health Sciences. I received an agreement and saw evidence of increased academic staff Joint Colleges entered the sporting competitions for the very FIRST time in history. We achieved our goal of making Joint Colleges known by our students and the other faculties. We also achieved the goal of starting a tradition and building a level of patriotism within the Joint Colleges, as we received a lot of support from the students at all our matches that took place this semester.

Next season we will work on winning these competitions!

Exponentially increased student participation in the university’s general and sporting activities.

I requested in three (3) consecutive meetings for proper seating be placed under the newly constructed gazebos so they can be ideally utilized. Finally, it was granted. However, I still had to work on lighting and electricity which was recently completed.

Compressors and suction equipment were bought and left uninstalled at the front of The School of Oral Health Sciences for eight (8) months. I conveyed the level of injustice at a College Board meeting which Professor Morrison attended. Within a week after the meeting, they were installed.

I lobbied for more space for the students within the Dental Lab for

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the Dental Laboratory Technology students. The lab was too small and could not hold many students at once.

An additional room is now provided for students to have a second dental lab.

Improved socialization and integration between oral and public health students.

Last, but not the least! Joint Colleges hosted their FIRST Drink Up, “Le Cure”, this year.

WESTERN CAMPUS

Jenardo Walker - Student Representative 2013/14 The race is not for the swift but for those who can endure.

S

erving as the Western Campus Chairman for the Academic Year 2013/2014 has been an experience beyond no other. The level of growth and understanding from it has made me more grounded in my stands for what is right. Though difficult and challenging at times, this post had its moments of fun.

First, before going any further, I want to say thanks to the almighty and also to those who endured and fought the fight for the development of UTech West.

Though the time was short but at the same time a rather long one, my time in office was not wasted with only idle chats but also with scheming on how to further develop UTech West. This was seen when we had our first major gospel event West Praise and also the most talked about UTech West Carnival, just to name a few. A great thanks to the team who worked diligently and effortlessly to ensure what was needed for anything was there and in place.

Some challenges, firstly, working with limited resources called for a lot of improvising and ensuring that all plans were executed with what was made available. Secondly, the switch from Kent Avenue to Dome Street took a great toll on everyone and the time taken to adapt and adjust to the new surrounding took a great deal of time. Regardless, many obstacles were overcome and the press for development was seen.

Achievements, many of the things implemented at West were due to the hard work and dedication of the Sub-Council members and most

importantly the sub-committees members. They who worked tirelessly with the Sub-Council to ensure that the vision we saw for the students, was a vision that the students wanted as well.

Great thanks to the sub-committee members for their hard work and their dedication.

List of Accomplishments •The availability to purchase print credit at UTech West.

•Arbitrate for WiFi for both campuses •Implementation of Sporting and Other electives •Sporting facilities •Implementation of spiritual event •Implementation of a Carnival •Incorporation of courses for both campuses •Advise staff and students on academic issues and campus issues as well •UTech West Bus •Change the view and understanding of the union’s roles and responsibilities •Create a relationship between campuses namely IUC/WHI, UWI-WJC and Montego Bay Community College University of Technology, Jamaica Students’ Union Annual Report AY13/14

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Cole Debique - Student Representative 2013/14 I, Cole DeBique was given the opportunity to sit on the UTech Students’ Union Council 2013-2014 as the International Students’ Representative, with a mandate to be the bridge between the University of Technology Jamaica (UTech), UTech Students’ Union and International Students. To Aid any and all International students with pertinent issues that may impede their stay/experience/ performance while here at UTech and by extension Jamaica. Expose the culture and heritage of all international students to each other and to the local student body. Now Semester one is in retrospective, while Semester two is in prospective.

SEMESTER ONE In retrospect, dating from August 18th, to say everything was and is well would be a lie, but guess what? There is nothing without struggles. Taking on new challenges which deviates from a set template, took strength, courage, and support from the council members and my executive team and also the international students population/family. The agreement s and disagreements were the real battles in the planning phase, yet at the end there was an execution which showed success.

SEMESTER TWO The first general meeting for the semester was held on Thursday 23th January year?. Welcoming of returning students after the Christmas holidays and the events planned for the semester were discussed.

Registration issues were also discussed.

international students to this event (20 plus).

Our moonlight hike to Blue Mountain was made, the second weekend in February (Saturday 15th to Sunday 16th) year.

Thirteen (13) international students made the trip where we spent the night at Whitfield’s Hall and began our hike at 2am the Sunday morning. The hike was made by a more mature group of international students although there was a mixture in age. Everyone made it up and back with no incident.

International Day was held on March 13th, 2014. It was in the vicinity of the library on the front lawn. Eight countries participated in displaying their literature, video, pictures, dance, food, costume, music and other items.

The UTISA has completed a three weekend (Saturday only) community service program. Fifteen people aided in the painting of the mural on the walls of the Hope Valley Experimental School. The principal, staff and students are very appreciative of the painting It was a great and also a new experience for me serving on this council for the academic year 2013/14 as I got along with everyone despite the changes that were made. .

Improvise and move forward to create better. No the Best!

A church visit was done on the 26th of January year to Emmanuel Baptist Church in Constant Spring. There was a good turnout of

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Board of Directors Community Service - Mr. Jerome Graham Elections - Mr. Chevan Cassells Health & Safety - Miss Ajunay Lemmie & Mr Raswaine Woolery Sports - Mr. Uriel Williams Editor in Chief - Mr. Dwayne T. Brown Entertainment & Cultural Activites - Mr. Histron Hoarde Special Projects - Mr. Keron Wright Spiritual Development - Miss Shanique Francis

Community Service

Jerome Graham

Just want to use this avenue to express gratitude to the students for the opportunity to be at the helm of a major portfolio community service 2013/14.

It was not an easy task, especially since the portfolio needed a renewed vision and focus of leadership, so that made me the prime candidate .

Major accomplishments was my focus and we started with a well decorated event “Teach the Youth”. It was a record breaking year for Teach the Youth in terms of sponsorship and overall event management, opening and closing ceremonies and an unforgettable sports day.

Soon after we hit the road for our blue ribbon event tag drive breaking the records once more. First since the event’s inception we have had over 1,500 students registering for the drive, 15 JUTC busses in addition to coasters, but most importantly crossing the million dollar mark in funds collected from the drive.

The west represented as well in their visit to the adopted blessed assurance home, and their support for all other events under the portfolio.

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Major thanks to my committee members, council members, and friends for all the love and support.

It might seem to be a small magnitude of accomplishments but the work and sleepless nights that were placed into ensuring these events were successful by our standards was tremendous and for that I just want to encourage you the students to continue to support this and all other portfolios on the UTech Students’ Union.

Thank you for all the support for 2013-2014.

Health & Safety

Ajunay Lemmie

It is with immense pleasure that both the members of the Students’ Union Council and the Health and Safety Committee of the academic year 2013/14 was able to overcome and achieve, most if not all we set about to do. For this, I must thank the Almighty GOD for strength to serve and represent the students of UTech, the permanent secretaries: Mrs Dixon, Ms Letts and “Bert” for their superior knowledge and advice, the members of Council who have given their support in all my endeavours. I cannot forget the members of my committee, especially Ms. Desmonique Bell and Mr. Dwayne Allen, who have shown their undying commitment to not only Health and Safety but the Students’ Union on a whole.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS •Coming into office, a Food Handler’s Forum was hosted where we saw UTech’s Environmental Office Andrea Hardware and Public Health Officer Kara Sue Nelson providing an informative forum to over eighty (80) students.

•Garnered First Aid Training and certification for members of Council and committee during the summer.

•Regular inventories and stocking of the First Aid Supplies was done; receiving donation from Jamaica Hospital Supplies, South East Regional Health Authority, Cari-Med, RACS Enterprises and Miller Surgical Supplies.

•A Detox Bar/Recovery Areawas present at major events such as Final Fete, Freshaz Fete, Tag Drive After Party, Beach Rave and so on.

•First Aid coverage was provided at all the Interfaculty Sport Activities and the incidents that required medical attention was handled professionally in thirty (30) minutes or less.

•The committee fundraised over $150,000 in the summer; this was used to assist in the Teach the Youth Programme.

•First Aid coverage was provided at all five (5) centres during the Teach the Youth Programme.

•Ensured the prompt submission of all Event Forms at the beginning of the semester and documentation of such.

•Organized a deal with JACAP and KSAC in which all Students’ Union events for the academic year was approved a permit at discounted packaged price.

•Had caution signs installed in areas where accidents have been reported.

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Health & Safety

Raswaine Woolery

•First aid coverage was provided to various Clubs and Societies as well as Seminars.

•Hosted a “Sex Wise” forum with the immense contribution of “Aunty Carol” which saw an audience of over fifty (50) students.

•Provided First Aid Tips to students during Dorm Orientation.

•Distribution of reading materials to students on matters of health and safety.

•Assisted in the organization and execution of fire drills.

•Had a booth on Cancer during FELS Education Day. MAJOR CHALLENGES •Communication- This was one of the major contributing factors to the effectiveness of First Aid Coverage at Interfaculty Sports.

•Space- It is a fact that too many people are contending for the utilization of venues and facilities on UTech. Many events had to suffer because of this inconvenience.

These are but few of the accomplishments of the Health and 42

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Safety Committee. However, there was a lot planned but unfortunately never saw the light of day. In all things, there are successes as well as failure. Still, a lot was done and still left to be done; it is just for the work to be continued and improved upon. All in all, this year was a good and successful year in all endeavours and it was an honouring serving the students of Union in this capacity.

Editor in Chief

Dwayne Brown

The role of the Editor in Chief is an extremely tedious one. It has now been two years since I undertook our role as Editor In Chief of the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) Students’ Union. This is a task I could not have accomplished on my own, I have had the opportunity of working with an excellent team of individual, Council members, Students’ of UTech and even University Staff. One of my aims was to ensure all publication of the UTech Students’ Union are of premier standards and distinguishes UTech Students’ Union from all other entities.

This Impact Report is the third (3rd) of my publications in this academic year, prior to this I there was a semester one review and an orientation magazine. All of which are available online in an electronic format at http://issuu.com/utechstudentsunion .

The Inter Faculty Quiz was unfortunately candled this academic year, this was part due to the lack of support from the other team player that were a part of making the event happen.

are now receiving on average 2700 visits per week. That amount significantly increases during exam period to 4300 visits per week. A majority of these visits are from the GPA calculator that has been integrated into the website to allow students to query their GPA. With large percent of internet users accessing Social Media daily, there is a huge opportunity to reach students with pertinent information. As a result, use of social networking and micro blogging sites such as Facebook and Twitter, has substantially increased. The UTech Students’ Union knows this and has invested time and efforts to increase its presence on Social Media.

At the end of Council 2013/14 our main social media site, https:// www.facebook.com/Utechstudentsunion reached a record 8004 likes. On average there were 7 new like per week and over 4000 persons viewing each of our posts.

Web traffic is the amount of data sent and received by visitors to a web site. Our website www.utechstudentsunion.com has grown immensely since its remake, at the end of Council 2013/14 we

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Entertainment

Histron Hoarde

Sponsors The support from sponsors are one of the key elements which helps the Students’ Union in executing events comfortably and as such let me say as the Director of Entertainment a big thank you to our sponsors: Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, Pepsi, Ting, Reggae Jammin, Redbull and Zip103fm.

Major Events: Freshers Fete (visit optifusion media for footage): Based on the responses from the students, it was said that Freshers Fete for the academic year of 2013/2014 was one of if not the biggest Freshers Fete UTECH has ever hosted. The execution was well done thanks to our sponsors, the ambiance was breath

taking and there was music from two of Jamaica’s finest disk jock: Chromatic and Dj Nicco.

College Rave Thursday College Rave Thursday scheduled for 9pm- 1am is the highlight of every Thursdays on UTECH’s campus. It is said to be one of the most popular college party series and as such, students make every effort to attend each and every Thursday. Additionally, some of Jamaica’s finest Dj’s were booked for the event as guest Dj’s on a weekly basis.

Interfaculty Beach Rave: This event is the first of its kind at UTech and was initiated by myself and the Sports Director. It was a day and night event where the different faculty’s compete in various beach sport activities such as netball, football, volleyball, etc. After all sporting activities were through, there was an after “Beach Rave” where students got to party and have fun.

Cheerleading: Cheerleading is one of UTech’s biggest annual event where families and friends can attend to see each faculty performing different routines based on the theme given. After all, I must say that this year was one of the biggest turnouts for cheerleading ever held at UTech.

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Spiritual Development

Shanique Francis

Before I delve into the successes and challenges of the execution of the events from the portfolio I must say a hearty thank you to the committee members of 2013/2014 who were always present, ready and willing to assist. With that said I would like to highlight the persons I consider the top six members of the committee for the academic year they are: Odane Bent, Eleanor Muir, Mishka Murray, Leighton Ramsay, Everton Reid and Maurecia Pusey.

Prayer Breakfast was the first event held from the portfolio. On August 30th at Lillian’s Restaurant the Students’ Union Council,

members of UTech staff and other specially invited guests sat down for the annual gathering which marks the beginning of a Christ centered academic year for the UTech students. The guest speaker Pastor Paul Morris led the group with a powerful presentation. Cost: $58, 351 HIGHLIGHTS: The UTech Students’ Union Western Campus Sub-Council was in attendance for this event.

Challenge: The number of members attending from the University staff could have been better.

Usually in the first semester of an academic year the Spiritual Development Committee hosts the event Perpetual Praise and then in the second semester hosts Salvation PhD. However, the 20132014 Council came with a change for the portfolio on November 1, 2013 Salvation PhD featuring Perpetual Praise was held in the Alfred Sangster Auditorium. The aim was to combine two great events into one. This was done as a part of the fulfilment of the proposal for the portfolio of Director of Spiritual Development.

Costs associated with the event includes: Sound reinforcement & light $140,000, Perpetual Praise $65,000 refreshments $6,000 security $4,319.82. Offering received $35,035.35.

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HIGHLIGHTS: A was designed banner was donated through the School of Engineering Representative Mr. Phillip Hugg and his entertainment coordinator Mr. Jason Johnson for the promotion of the event.

Challenge: As with most event from this portfolio the costs associated are relatively high.

Semester 2 West Praise This event was a part of the fulfillment of the proposal tendered for the work to be executed for the academic year. West Praise was planned

•There was cooperative effort from the Western Campus subcouncil with regards to the overall planning and execution of the event and specifically the following; booking and paying for the venue, promotions among other things.

•Outstanding efforts by members of the Western Sub-council and also Greaville Smith, Delroy Stennett and the permanent Secretaries.

Income Offering received: $16,787 + $6 US Praise in the Park The event was successfully held on March 6th in the Caribbean Sculpture Park. Present at the event were: Jermaine Edwards, UCCF Praise team and other students of the University participated

and organized through the portfolios of Spiritual Development, Western Campus Representative and other members of the Western Sub-Council. The event was held on February 8th at the Montego Bay High School for Girls Auditorium.

Highlights: • This event was the first of its kind and was aimed at ensuring that the Spiritual arm of the Union was felt by students of the Western Campus.

in the event.

•The event was well received by students and other persons in attendance.

Challenges: One of the challenges for this event was its postponement and later approval which limited the promotion that could have been done.

Cost: $50,000

There was cooperative effort from the Western Campus Sub-council as well as significant support from the President Mr. Greaville Smith and V.P Mr. Delroy Stennett in the execution of the event.

Challenges The event had a later start time than expected and also experience technical difficulties throughout the event.

Highlights: •The event was well received by students and other persons in attendance.

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Highlights: Jermaine Edwards shared his interest in work with the Students’ Union to assist with future gospel/spiritual events.

Elections

Chevan Cassells

Despite all the controversies in the second semester of the academic year 2013-2014, it was a very positive year for Electoral Committee and the Students’ Union. Most of the objectives outlined upon taking office were successfully executed.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES The main focus of the first semester was on the Clubs and Societies; there were 49 clubs and societies registered (41 in Kingston and 8 on the Western Campuses) which includes new clubs such as Environmental Club and Creative Animation and Multimedia Production Club. All reported issues and concerns regarding clubs and societies were resolved as best as possible and in a timely manner.

DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE Kudos to the Disciplinary Committee for critical and unbiased decisions all instances where the committee was assembled. One new initiative in regard to discipline developed was the Union Tribunal. It was not passed due to the chaos in both the University and the Students’ Union Council. The framework is there and it is aimed at giving members of the Union the right to challenge sanctions imposed against them.

ELECTIONS The Election period is the most difficult time as a Council member, I must admit. Students’ Union Elections 2014 was a very intense and emotional one where a lot of rumors and attacks were being

CONSTITUTION The Constitution was passed with a lot of amendments deemed necessary by both the Students’ Union Council and the University’s Governance. The changes were made in an effort to ensure that the Students’ Union Council members operate efficiently and effectively as well as to reflect any modification made in the operation(s) and/or structure of the Students’ Union Council.

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made on persons’ dignity. The 2.70 Grade Point Average for eligibility to participate in the election resulted in some candidates being expelled from the election. The University’s Governance made a ruling that not elected on appointed council member should have a GPA below the stipulated 2.70. The General Election 2014 was postponed on a request by the President of the Students Union Council by one week to facilitate the new candidates’ campaign. Elections were conducted on the 27th of March 2014 on all five UTech sites and a recount was done a week later. The Electoral Office of Jamaica controlled the tabulation and polling procedures to ensure that transparency and fairness is maintained. Even though it was obvious that the Election period was marred by a lot of discrepancies.

I finish by thanking all members of the Student’s Union who encouraged, acknowledged, assisted and even criticized the Director of Elections, Electoral Committee and the Students’ Union Council for this academic year. Please remember to hold every member of Students’ Union Council accountable and responsible for his or her actions and duties. The Students’ Union is here to serve you.

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Appendices

Results of the 2014

Students’ Union Council Elections

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Supplementary information to the

F i n a n c i a l S tat e m e n t s

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