UCCI AND THE CAYMAN ISLANDS HONOURED AS A ‘CHAMPION OF THE CARIBBEAN’ FOR PIONEERING WORK IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) is proud to announce its recognition as a ‘Champion of the Caribbean’ by RESEMBID (Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity). This prestigious honour highlights UCCI’s outstanding contributions to the sustainable development and renewable energy landscape of the Cayman Islands, driven by impactful training programmes, renewable energy initiatives, and innovative community projects.

The Champions of the Caribbean campaign brings attention to different overseas countries and territories (OCTs) that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to sustainable practices. From the Cayman Islands’ initiatives in renewable energy and training to other territories’ efforts in marine biodiversity protection, climate change adaptation, and green innovation, the Champions of the Caribbean series celebrates the achievements of communities across the region.

In partnership with RESEMBID, UCCI has embarked on a journey of significant environmental and social progress across the Cayman Islands. With financial support from RESEMBID totaling over €1.5 million, UCCI has taken strides toward transforming the local workforce and infrastructure. The institution has trained over 50 unemployed and underemployed Caymanians, providing critical skills in sectors such as sustainable construction, renewable energy, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and tourism. Many of the courses included industry-recognized certifications from City and Guilds and there was a focus on fostering economic and environmental resilience through practical experience and hands-on learning.

More recently, in February 2023, UCCI secured a €1.1 million grant to further transform the university into a hub for sustainable practices and research in renewable energy. This funding has been pivotal in enhancing the college’s infrastructure, aligning with the National Energy Policy’s goal of achieving 80% reliance on renewable energy by 2037. Key milestones include the installation of a Building Management System (BMS), retrofitting five buildings to be more energy efficient, enhancing solar energy infrastructure on campus, and the development of a ‘Digital Library’ for environmental data and resources, underscoring UCCI’s commitment to a sustainable future.

Dr. Robert Robertson, President of UCCI, commented on the recognition, “We are incredibly proud to be named a Champion of the Caribbean by RESEMBID. This honour is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and especially Project Manager, Cleveland Julien. We are committed to creating a more sustainable future for the Cayman Islands. The programmes we have implemented, alongside our strong partnerships, are driving real change, and we are excited to continue leading efforts for a greener, more resilient community. The work to date is simply a start—there is much more to do.”

Cleveland Julien, RESEMBID Project Manager at UCCI, emphasized the impact of UCCI’s sustainability projects, “Through our collaboration with RESEMBID, we have had the opportunity to initiate transformative programmes, such as training 53 Caymanians from Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac in key sectors like solar photovoltaic technology, tourism, and ICT. This recognition speaks to our dedication to putting our ‘green footprint’ in the Cayman Islands, building not just skills but also sustainable futures.”

As part of this impactful work, Dr. Robert Robertson, President and CEO of UCCI, has been invited to present virtually at the Island Innovations Conference and the University of London. He will share UCCI’s experience and achievements in sustainability and the RESEMBID programme, offering insights into how the Cayman Islands and other OCTs are leading efforts to create resilient, sustainable communities across the region.

Fabian McKinnon, RESEMBID Programme Director emphasized: “This promising, exciting campaign pointedly puts the accent on exactly what matters - the effect of our work on people. The remarkable projects being undertaken by the OCTs under the RESEMBID Programme have uncovered inspiring individuals who have made a profound impact on their societies or have directly benefited from the positive outcomes of these initiatives.

“These resilient people are the voices behind compelling stories. We have now worked with UCCI for two years and the impact that the work is having on the communities of the Cayman Islands is inspirational. They truly are Champions of the Caribbean.”

The community is invited to follow UCCI’s social media platform ‘Sustainable UCCI’ to support and celebrate these local heroes.