ECNETNews Report
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is set to honor its vibrant Caribbean heritage while signaling a significant shift towards independence from colonial ties with the introduction of a new collection of academic regalia during the upcoming 2024 graduation ceremonies.
This marks the first redesign of the academic gowns in over 75 years, a transformation that engaged the university community to ensure the new attire reflects the essence of contemporary Caribbean culture. The revamped gowns showcase bright, striking designs inspired by the region’s rich colors, textures, and traditions, crafted with the collaboration of local creatives.
Significantly, the new regalia embodies The UWI’s brand identity and commitment to sustainability. The gowns are manufactured in the Caribbean, utilizing fabrics tailored to the tropical climate, showcasing local craftsmanship.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles views this redesign as a pivotal move in the university’s ongoing journey of decolonization, emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in academic settings.
“The story of The UWI’s academic dress parallels its history. Celebrating our 75th Diamond Jubilee has ushered us into a new era of Caribbean pride. The new regalia symbolizes our movement away from colonial influences,” stated Professor Beckles.
This milestone follows the significant 2019 endorsement from the Royal Family and the Privy Council, which marked a transfer of the Office of the Visitor’s powers, further paving the way for The UWI to assert its identity as a distinctly Caribbean institution.
Initially established in 1962, The UWI adopted its first official academic dress at its inception. Over the decades, the institution has evolved, culminating in the current redesign that reflects its Caribbean roots.
The redesign process was meticulously planned, starting with Senate approval in 2019 and further validated by the university’s finance committee in 2021, ensuring the gowns are produced within the Caribbean. Community engagement played a crucial role in shaping the designs for the 2024 regalia.
This year’s graduation ceremonies, running from October 12 to November 9, 2024, across The UWI’s five campuses, will feature a spectacular display of Caribbean spirit, as graduates and faculty don the newly unveiled regalia during the traditional academic processions.
