KINGSTON, Jamaica— The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona said it has invested over $168 million to renovate the living facilities at two of its halls of residence— Rex Nettleford Hall and AZ Preston Hall— over the summer break.

The university explained that this is part of a phased campus-wide renovation project to improve the teaching and learning experience of students at the institution. It added that the other five halls managed by UWI are also scheduled for renovation during the 2024/2025 academic year.

“As we continue to design strategies to improve the teaching and learning experience of our students, the campus is pleased to invest in accommodation facilities, an important part of the learning experience for our students. So far this academic year, we have invested over $168 million to carry out renovation to bathroom facilities, living quarters, acquisition of new furniture and appliances among other things,” said Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The UWI Mona, Professor Densil A Williams, who along with members of the executive team toured the two halls on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

“I am pleased that these renovations have been done with a high level of efficiency and a laser focus on costs management. There were no overruns on these projects. The Estate Management Department, Office of Student Services and Development and other stakeholders must be congratulated for leading this phase of the project. We will continue to make further investments in our facilities over the year as we aim to provide an aesthetically pleasing living environment for our students,” he added.

The university said the work on Rex Nettleford Hall so far, saw 38 households, which accommodate 304 students, undergoing major renovations with upgrades to bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, common areas and dining rooms spaces as well as interior and exterior painting.

On the AZ Preston Hall, 13 households which accommodate 75 students were renovated in a similar manner.

UWI added that as part of the project, it purchased more than 600 mattresses, some 800 kitchen appliances and more than 80 laundry appliances. These, it said, will be replaced in the coming days and weeks.

“We appreciate the administration’s commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for us, and these extensive renovations are a testament to that commitment. The renovations became even more necessary after the passage of Hurricane Beryl and we look forward to its completion in the coming months,” said AZ Preston Hall chairman, Ajani Campbell, who was also on the tour of the renovated halls.