"One UWI, One Alumni Family" 

The UWI Alumni Association (UWIAA) Jamaica Chapter launches its own official public policy think tank "The Postgraduate Centre for Research & Intelligence (PCRI)," signaling a dynamic space where research becomes action and where policy ideas can be transformed into meaningful change. 

In a landmark move to foster research and analysis in relevant public policy matters for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, this first-of-its-kind initiative, positions the think tank as a pipeline for student/graduate-led policy research and innovation, bolstered by alumni expertise, assistance, and global networks, in order to produce evidence based policy solutions.

“This partnership includes mentorship and training, blending academic rigour with practical insight. It will contribute insightful research that will help in developing the future policy landscape of Jamaica and the Caribbean,” stated Nicolette Wright Black, President – UWIAA Jamaica Chapter. “Our alumni bring a wealth of experience across industries, and our students bring bold innovative ideas and solutions. Together, we can transform research into real-world change”.

“This is a powerful moment for our students,” said Aaron Hoilett (PCRI Director). “They now have direct access to mentors who have walked the paths they hope to follow, and the chance to turn academic inquiry into meaningful action”.

Celia Davidson Francis, Director, UWI Alumni Relations affirmed “This collaboration is not only important from an alumni engagement standpoint; it is also in perfect alignment with our Sustainability and SDGs. I am also the Regional Director of the One UWI Responsible Futures Programme and welcome the PCRI as it directly supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by promoting informed public policy grounded in inclusivity and advances SDG 17:Partnerships for the Goals, by creating a strong network between alumni, students, academics, and thought leaders”.

The 5 policy research subject areas the PCRI are currently focused on follow:

- Reducing incidence of abuse against wards of the state 

- Optimal monetary and fiscal policy development

- Crime reduction and national safety

- Enhancing business efficiency and development

- Climate change and environmental sustainability

Pro-Vice Chancellor for the Board of Graduate Studies, Professor Aldrie Henry Lee, was also on had to witness the PCRI and the UWIAA Jamaica Chapter launch this great partnership, along with Stephen Harker, Vice President of the UWIAA Jamaica Chapter and Phillip Clarke, Senior PCRI Research Officer.

This think tank will serve as a model for what is possible when alumni and students work together with purpose. This move has been welcomed by alumni, university leaders, student researchers, and faculty members. Looking ahead, the activities of the PCRI will produce insightful collaborative alumni-student policy research reports, research fellowships and annual forums, designed to create a thriving ecosystem of intellectual collaboration between graduates and current UWI Mona students.