Each year the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus through the Office of Student Services and Development hosts an orientation filled with activities for new students entering the university. The orientation is planned and executed with the intention to sensitize, edify and entertain students about the university community, particularly about the extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, services and the multitude of entities that make up the university and complement its academic work.
Orientation 2024 took place on the grounds of Old Library, stretched across to the Students Union on August 22 and 23. One of the major attractions for students was the many tents organized along the grounds that hosted many of the entities on campus, including student societies, halls of residence, academic and non-academic departments, institutes, centres, service and goods providers, plus important partners with which the university shares amicable relations. These entities, including the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa Caribbean Public Advocacy had on display brochures, posters, signage and banners that made each entity visible and attractive to students. There was a main stage for performances by guest performers who helped in creating a fun and relaxed environment for the new students.
Over the two days The Institute interacted with students and members of The UWI community. The Institute gained visibility to the new students and the general university community. New students signed up with the Institute to receive future correspondence and for involvement in activities by the Institute and the Africa Caribbean Student’s Club. Members of the community showed interest in the work of The Institute and gave positive feedbacks.
The event was an overall success for The Institute. We had a positive interaction with students and gained visibility, which were important objectives to have met. The Institute intends to participate and be a part of similar activities and events to expose the general UWI community to the Institute and being relatable to students and staff alike. Look out for The Institute and The Africa Caribbean Student’s Club at the next big event on The UWI, Mona Campus.
Omar Ryan
Communication and Events Coordinator
