UWI's influence and critics

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I HAVE been noting with keen interest, the numerous remarks being made about the University of the West Indies (UWI) in your paper as well as elsewhere. Not to mention the rather crude portrayal of the institution by a few so-called 'influential people' of the society.

As a student who has the opportunity of attending this noble institution, my second at the tertiary level, I do not see it as my responsibility to either 'defend' or engage in polemic in its favour. That is the role the Guild of Students should assume. But it must be noted, that the university has made exceptional contributions to the development of the Caribbean people, and continues to do so even with limited resources.

In addition, it was through the innovation, vision, and commitment of its founders, the late Sir Hugh Sherlock et al, that this bastion of Caribbean educational legacy was born. Mr. Cecil Gutzmore, an aspiring intellectual luminary (I am only an undergraduate, Sir), would do well not to take too seriously or personally, the criticisms which may be 'hurled' at the university. In fact, such bashing may serve a useful purpose; that of institutional self-introspection.

What may perhaps be useful, Madam, is if these people, who are so keen on giving the institution a verbal flogging, would take some time from their busy schedules to come and interact with both the staff and students at our Open Days and other events. Such an experience should help to broaden the critics' scope about the contribution of the university to Caribbean regional development.

I am, etc.,

KINGSLEY J. WRAY

E-mail:

kingsley_wray@altavista.com

Kingston 19

Via Go-Jamaica

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