UTech to confer honorary degrees on Oliver Samuels, Richard Pandohie and Vivian Crawford

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Vivian Crawford, Oliver Samuels and Richard Pandohie will receive honorary degrees from the University of Technology (UTech) for their significant service to the nation during its 2026 graduation ceremonies.

Samuels, a Jamaican cultural icon, actor and comedian; Pandohie, chief executive officer and managing director of Seprod Jamaica Limited; and Crawford, the retired/former executive director of the Institute of Jamaica and educator, financier and heritage historian were described as nation builders by the institution.

UTech said Samuels will be conferred on Saturday, November 14, at 10:00 am with the Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his significant contributions to Jamaican culture, theatre and comedy through a distinguished career spanning more than 55 years in theatrical performance, television and film.

Pandohie will receive the Honorary Doctor of Technology (Honoris Causa) on Saturday, November 14, at 4:00 pm in recognition of his three decades of leadership and contributions spanning engineering, business and Jamaica’s economic development.

On Sunday, November 15, at 10:00 am, Crawford will be conferred with the Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his distinguished career bridging education, finance, culture and public service, and his significant role in advancing the preservation and international recognition of Jamaica’s cultural heritage.

The university will also confer the Chancellor’s Medal on Hilory Pamela Kelly, retired university public orator and accomplished Jamaican educator, language specialist and curriculum developer during the first ceremony. The Chancellor’s Medal award, of equal status to an honorary doctorate, is bestowed by the chancellor to recognise the contributions of individuals or institutions of national or international significance.

“Their achievements span industry, cultural heritage, the creative arts and education, reflecting the diverse talents and commitment that drive national progress. As we honour their legacies, we also celebrate the example they set for our graduates, inspiring them to use their knowledge, skills and talents to serve their communities, contribute to national development and make a meaningful impact on the world,” said UTech President Dr Kevin Brown.

During the three ceremonies slated for the Alfred Sangster Auditorium at the university, the institution will present degrees and other academic distinctions to over 1,800 graduates.