KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of Technology says it is intensifying recovery efforts at its western campus in Montego Bay after Hurricane Melissa caused widespread damage across western Jamaica.

According to the university, many students and staff suffered losses, including damage to homes and, in some cases, the loss of loved ones.

Its western campus serves roughly 500 students across two sites: Barnett Street, home to the Caribbean School of Nursing, and Dome Street, which offers programmes such as business administration, nursing, public health, computer information systems, law and various professional development courses.

In the aftermath of the hurricane, the university said it conducted full assessments across all campuses before resuming teaching. UTech President Dr Kevin Brown said the institution’s priority is the safety and well-being of its students and staff.

“Our western campus family has shown incredible strength and courage through this difficult time,” Dr Brown said in a press release. “Despite significant setbacks, our commitment remains unwavering, and their safety and well-being remain our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that every affected student and staff have access to food, shelter, connectivity but also to emotional and psychological support through our counselling and chaplaincy services.”

The Dome Street campus, which was flooded, has undergone major cleaning and partial repairs and reopened on November 10. Operations resumed with generator power until electricity was restored during the following week. Water was supplied from on-site tanks, and a Starlink system was installed to guarantee internet access.

The Barnett Street campus, however, remains closed due to severe structural damage, including roof failure and water intrusion. Repairs are ongoing, and reopening will occur once the site meets safety standards, the university said.

Dr Brown noted that the university has expanded support through its Student Welfare, Counselling and Chaplaincy units. Affected students may withdraw from classes without academic or financial penalties, and the institution has introduced special grants, fee waivers and care packages.

Western Campus Coordinator Antoinette Smith expressed gratitude for the assistance received from staff, volunteers and the wider community, saying the support has made a significant difference.

As part of the relief response, a university delegation visited the campus on November 5 to distribute bottled water, generators and other essential supplies. The mission formed part of operations coordinated by the university’s Emergency Operations Centre, which manages the receipt and distribution of relief items. Additional support efforts continue through staff initiatives and ongoing care-package distribution.

The university is urging continued support from partners, alumni and friends as recovery efforts continue.

“We cannot do this alone,” Dr Brown said. “We need the continued support of our partners, alumni and friends of the university to help us rebuild and restore our western campus. Every act of generosity, whether in cash or kind, helps our students and staff recover and return to learning.”