The University of the West Indies (The UWI) has made a groundbreaking announcement that it will be launching the first-ever global online graduate business school focused on leadership within the context of supporting the United Nations‘ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative comes after almost two years of finalizing operational procedures and negotiations, showcasing the university’s commitment to providing innovative and impactful education.
The launch event for this pioneering business school will take place on Wednesday at the headquarters of The UWI’s Global Campus in Barbados. The ceremony will be a hybrid event, with Trinidad and Tobago’s Education Minister, Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, delivering the feature address. Other notable speakers include Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and UWI Vice Chancellor, Professor Hilary Beckles.
Funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and endorsed by the United Nations (UN), The UWI’s International School for Development Justice (ISDJ) aims to educate and empower current and future activists and leaders within the framework of the 17 United Nations SDGs. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Professor Hilary Beckles describes the ISDJ as „the largest and most transformative global project“ ever undertaken by The UWI. The institute has garnered support from the United Nations, the IDB, and other universities such as SUNY, Glasgow, Johannesburg, and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network led by Professor Jeffrey Sachs. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving the SDGs.
The UWI’s new business school is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in online education. Leveraging its two decades of experience in online learning through the Global Campus, The UWI aims to provide high-quality education that aligns with the SDGs. The university’s perfect score in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for supporting SDG 17 further solidifies its dedication to sustainable development.
The ISDJ offers a range of Master’s degrees in areas such as Climate Studies, Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Health and Informatics, Sustainability and Data Analytics, and Sustainability Management. Additionally, renowned UN advisor and sustainable development expert, Professor Jeffrey Sachs, will lead a masterclass on the SDGs as part of the introductory courses. Sachs is among the Honorary Distinguished Fellows who will contribute to the Institute’s scholarship and teaching.
Starting from January 2025, The UWI will offer a comprehensive suite of asynchronous online graduate programs, including one-year Master’s degrees and shorter micro-credentials at the Certificate and Diploma levels. This diverse range of offerings reflects the university’s commitment to providing accessible and relevant education that addresses the pressing challenges of our time.
In conclusion, The UWI’s launch of the global online graduate business school focused on leadership and the SDGs is a significant milestone in the field of education. By combining academic excellence, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to sustainable development, The UWI is paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.