"One UWI, One Alumni Family" 

Historic Post for His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams 

Proud UWI alumnus, H.E. Sir Rodney Williams, the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, has been appointed President of the West India Committee (WIC), which was established in 1735 and is the oldest representative body of the Commonwealth. Its role is to advocate for the welfare of Caribbean peoples. Sir Rodney brings extensive experience as well as a strong commitment to the Caribbean's development to this role. He has always championed initiatives in education, heritage preservation, and international collaboration. Under Sir Rodney Williams' leadership, the WIC will advance the welfare of Caribbean peoples, preserving their cultural heritage, and fostering resilience in the face of contemporary challenges. Sir Rodney will further build the remarkable legacy of the WIC and will ensure its continued relevance for many years to come.

As the only Royal Charter institution of its kind, the Committee focuses on improving the lives of Caribbean communities through education, training, advocacy, disaster relief, and cultural preservation. Its recognition as a UNESCO Consulting NGO for Caribbean heritage and Small Island Developing Nations underscores its global significance. The WIC has a history of impactful initiatives that have shaped the Caribbean and the Commonwealth, such as founding the Thames River Police in 1798, which became a global model for policing, to supporting the establishment of the University of the West Indies in response to regional educational needs. Interestingly, it was also responsible for introducing breadfruit and mangoes to the Caribbean through Captain Bligh's historic 1787 voyage on the HMS Bounty, addressing critical food security challenges of the time.