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 innovation and sustainability.
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 new 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 on a global scale.
Professor Hilary Beckles describes the Institute as „the largest and most transformative global project“ ever undertaken by The UWI. With the support of the United Nations and the IDB, as well as other universities and organizations, ISDJ is poised to make a meaningful impact in the field of sustainable development.
The UWI is now the only university with such an enterprise, highlighting its leadership in the realm of online education and sustainable development. Leveraging its two decades of experience in online education through its Global Campus, The UWI is well-positioned to offer high-quality programs that align with the SDGs.
The university is currently accepting applications for January 2025 admissions, with a range of Master’s degrees in areas such as Climate Studies, Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Health and Informatics, and Sustainability Management. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex global challenges.
As part of its offerings, ISDJ will feature a masterclass led by Professor Jeffrey Sachs, a renowned UN advisor and global leader in sustainable development. Professor Sachs, along with other Honorary Distinguished Fellows, will contribute to the Institute’s scholarship and teaching, further enhancing the quality of education offered by The UWI.
Overall, The UWI’s launch of the International School for Development Justice marks a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to sustainable development and global leadership. With its innovative approach to online education and focus on the SDGs, The UWI is poised to make a lasting impact on the future of sustainable development.