Principal and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, Professor Densil A Williams, has announced plans for a new building to host its Faculty of Engineering.

According to Williams, this is part of The UWI’s broader strategic vision to expand academic offerings; meet the growing demand for industry-ready graduates; and position Jamaica as a regional hub for innovation, science, and technology.

“The new engineering building will signal a major step in the infrastructure revolution of the campus as we move to expand programmes that are geared toward meeting demand for skill sets that will drive higher value-added output for national growth and development,” said Williams during UWI Mona’s Annual Business Meeting of the Campus Council held recently.

Williams said the reimagined Faculty of Engineering building will be part of a suite of major capital development projects on the horizon.

Architectural designs for the new faculty building, featuring modern facilities equipped to support advanced teaching, applied research, and industry partnerships were unveiled at the council meeting.

Williams pointed out that the infrastructure upgrade is part of the broader campus modernisation plan, which includes renovations to the Main Library, redesigned campus entrances, and expansion of the Western Jamaica Campus.

“The planned engineering building will address the increasing demand for skilled professionals in disciplines such as civil, mechanical, electrical, biomedical, environmental, and computer engineering — fields that are critical to Jamaica’s infrastructure development, digital transformation, climate resilience, and industrial growth,” said Williams.

He emphasised that this initiative aligns directly with The UWI’s ‘Triple A Strategy’, particularly the pillars of access, alignment, and agility.

“This new building will expand enrolment into the high-demand discipline of engineering, provide space for the alignment our offerings with national and global development goals, and allow the institution to respond with agility to the needs of the labour market,” added Williams.

He said, in addition to increased enrolment, the Faculty of Engineering will support a wider research agenda in partnership with both local and international institutions.

“Recent memoranda of understanding signed with universities in North America and Africa will set the stage for joint research initiatives, student and faculty exchanges, and collaborations in global health and engineering innovation.

“The investment in engineering education also complements ongoing efforts to improve student support, enhance research productivity, and streamline operational efficiency,” said Williams.

“We are not just building structures; we are building futures. The Faculty of Engineering will be a cornerstone of the new Mona, where innovation meets education to transform lives and uplift societies,” Williams added.

Construction of the new Faculty of Engineering building is expected to begin following final approvals of the funding proposal which is now making its way through The UWI’s approval system.