KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, has received grant funding of US$90,000 from Japan for the construction of a gymnasium, which will be used primarily for the development of artistic gymnastics at the institution.

The gymnasium, to be completed within the next three months, will be built to specifications that will support the training of gymnasts, through collaboration with Japanese coaches from Nishida’s Gymnastics.

Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of the UWI, Professor Archibald McDonald, speaking at a signing and cheque handover ceremony at the UWI Council Room, on the campus, today, said the successful completion of the project is another critical step in the university’s ongoing mandate to diversify the capabilities and programme offerings at the UWI.

“Athletics and sports remain a core component to the UWI’s ongoing quest to establish ourselves as front-runners in higher learning,” he said, adding that the facility will allow students to train in a facility that is built for the core purpose of developing their talents, sports acumen and capabilities, through the provision of the appropriate space and equipment.

Professor McDonald said the facility will likely encourage more interest in the sport amongst students and the wider public, and from an academic perspective, foster greater interest in physical education. He noted that the facility will also enable the UWI to provide more community development youth sport activities to neighbouring communities.

“Upon its completion, the UWI will be able to boast a comprehensive sports programme that focuses on education, training and developing essential industry practices that will take our country further on the international sporting stage,” he said.

Professor McDonald expressed appreciation to the Japanese government, adding that he is pleased to be able to strengthen the bonds, as a tertiary institution, with the government and people of Japan, and is looking forward to maintaining a strong relationship for the advancement of education.

Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to Jamaica, Masanori Nakano, gave a commitment to continuing the cooperation and exchanges in the field of sports and education between Jamaica and Japan.

“Because the Mona Campus has regional influence in various areas, it is my sincere wish that this grant will assist its endeavours to promote further cross-cultural education and sports training for the benefit of the entire Caribbean region,” he said.