KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang, has hailed the University of the West Indies (UWI) for cementing itself as an authority in tertiary education, continuing to attract and mould the best minds of the region.

“As the university boasting the largest number of sitting heads of State, this nest of learning has nurtured the minds that lead the societies across our region,” Chang said, adding that he is a proud alumnus.

He was speaking at the Prime Minister’s Welcome Gala Reception for UWI Chancellor’s Week, dubbed ‘A Gathering of Graduates’, on the lawns of Jamaica House on Monday.

Representing Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, who is on an official visit to Namibia, Chang pointed out that even more notable is the evolution of the institution to meet the demands of a postmodern society, noting that the UWI has not only stood the test of time, but has “created and inspired the times”.

“After 70 historic, dynamic and inspiring years, the UWI stands as one of the region’s most successful representations of unity and integration and still holds pride of place in the ambitions of our region’s brightest,” he said.

Chang also highlighted the significant research that the institution continues to present in culture, natural sciences, medicine, economics and literature, among others areas.

“The erstwhile faculty and students at UWI continue to provide this region with relevant research. This research investigates our unique realities as Caribbean people and its bearing on the wider global economy and social landscape,” he said.

Chancellor’s Week is one of the activities commemorating the UWI’s 70th anniversary this year.