IN a step away from tradition, Northern Caribbean University (NCU) has developed a logo, which is to serve as its official insignia.

"What we have used [in the past] is a crest, which is common to a number of other organisations and institutions," said NCU President Dr Trevor Gardner.

"The logo ought to be authentic and peculiar to the institution and that did not exist in the crest. This will symbolically set NCU apart from all other universities. You will never see it replicated at any other university, which gives us our unique identity," he added.

The crest, which has been used since 1919, will now be put to other uses.

"The crest may be used on some other things but not as the official insignia of the university," Gardner said.

The logo was chosen from a number of entries submitted by members of the university faculty, staff and student body.

It was designed by Jim Patterson of the Corporate Communication, Marketing and Public Relations Department of NCU.

The circle of knowledge, represented by a male and female student stretching upwards with degree and Bible in hand, reflects Christian education as the university prepares students for service to country and to God.

The design also includes the Seventh-day Adventist logo areas that are symbolic of the Three Angels' Message to encircle the students and highlight the university's belief in providing a 'balanced education'.

It preserves the heritage, for "the work of Seventh-day Adventist Christian Education and Redemption are one".

The globe is symbolic of NCU's international appeal, but more importantly that the students' education will enhance their upward mobility beyond this world, for they are preparing citizens for heaven where learning never ends.

The palm leaves represent the pure and healthy environment on the blessed hill [NCU] while capturing the most widely known landmark at the institution from which the first 'Year Book' was named and remains to this day — The Palm Leaves.