The University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus celebrates the founding of the University 65 years ago, with its annual Homecoming celebrations this week.
 
The week of celebrations started on Sunday, February 10 with Commemoration Service at the University Chapel.  Students lit candles for their respective nations and the male voice choir ministered.
 
The Homecoming celebration continues on Thursday, February 14 beginning at 2.30 p.m. with the University Parade followed by the Flag raising ceremony at 4.00 p.m.  The celebrations end on Friday, February 15 with Caribbean Day.
 
The University Parade will feature students from UWI contributing countries, the halls of residence, commuting students,  clubs, clubs and societies, campus queens, members of staff and alumni  in procession   around the Ring Road. Participants will be  escorted by a marching band,  music trucks and classic cars. The procession starts at the Students’ Union, continuing around the Ring Road and ending at the Assembly Hall.  Groups will be judged on vibes, numbers, uniformity and creativity, dress and presentation. The Flag raising ceremony which follows will feature students raising their respective country flags.  
 
On Friday, February 15, the University will stage Caribbean Day, a food festival and exhibition ‘tour’ of UWI territories. Highlighting the day’s events will be booths and displays depicting life in the Caribbean countries which contribute to the University.  Visitors will also have the opportunity to taste food from the different countries and experience different aspects of Caribbean culture during a lunch hour concert.
 
Commemoration is held every year in February to coincide with the anniversary of the appointment of the University’s first Chancellor, Her Royal Highness Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone. The UWI Mona’s Homecoming & Commemoration Celebrations provide an opportunity to celebrate the founding of the University, to acknowledge its unique position as the only higher education institution with a presence throughout the English speaking Caribbean, while assisting to engender a greater sense of belonging and develop a feeling of camaraderie among staff, students and alumni.