News Releases

UTC Contributes TTD $50,000 to Support First-Generation Students at The UWI Campus

For Release Upon Receipt - October 30, 2025

St. Augustine


St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago, October 30th, 2025 – First-generation university students at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), St. Augustine Campus now have greater support to succeed academically and socially, thanks to a generous TT$50,000 contribution from the T&T Unit Trust Corporation (UTC). The donation is geared toward first-generation students and also supports participants in the Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Mentorship Programme, which helps first-year students navigate university life and build the foundation for long-term success.

 

 (L–R): UTC Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Kerri Maharaj, and The UWI St. Augustine Deputy Principal, Professor Derek Chadee, showcase the donation presented by the Unit Trust Corporation (UTC) to The University of the West Indies (The UWI).

The contribution was presented during a cheque handover ceremony held on September 15, where Deputy Principal Professor Derek Chadee and Manager of Financial Advisory Services Kristy Mannette-Smith accepted the donation on behalf of the Campus. Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Professor Chadee noted that the support from UTC represents an investment in student success and empowerment. Professor Chadee also expressed gratitude to the UTC for their generosity and commended their shared vision of student empowerment.

 

 (L–R): Attorney-at-Law and UWI alumna, Ms Suszanna Clarke; UTC Chief Financial Officer, Mr Kerri Maharaj; UWI St. Augustine Deputy Principal, Professor Derek Chadee; and UTC Manager of Financial Advisory Services, Ms Kristy Mannette-Smith, display the donation presented by the Unit Trust Corporation (UTC) to The University of the West Indies (The UWI).

 

He stated, “This investment of TT$50,000 in scholarships … will transform the lives of our students for years to come.  It is a powerful demonstration of UTC’s commitment to education, equity and the future development of Trinidad and Tobago.” The contribution includes TTD $45,000 in renewable scholarships over the next three years, along with a TTD $5,000 one-time bursary.

With the UTC’s belief that true empowerment comes from providing people with the right tools and guidance to build their own legacies, UTC’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Kerri Maharaj, said the STAR programme aligned with the institution’s core values. By supporting the first-generation students, UTC is playing its part in giving them the confidence and knowledge to navigate university life and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Mr. Maharaj stressed, “At the Unit Trust Corporation, we view this contribution not merely as a donation but as a direct investment in the future of our nation. By supporting The University of the West Indies, we are helping to cultivate the next generation of thought leaders, innovators, and professionals who will ultimately drive the economic growth of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Mrs. Kristy Mannette-Smith explained that the generous contribution will be used to provide life-changing resources for many financially challenged students as they continue to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles that might otherwise stand in their way. She indicated, “Gifts like these don’t just fund tuition; they transform lives and open doors to a brighter future. We are truly grateful for this partnership with the Unit Trust Corporation.”

 END

 About The University of the West Indies

The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is the Caribbean’s premier higher education institution and one of only two regional universities in the world. With five campuses across the English-speaking Caribbean and global centres in partnership with universities in North America, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, The UWI continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, research innovation, and societal impact. Consistently ranked among the world’s best by Times Higher Education (THE), The UWI is a global leader in addressing critical challenges, including climate change, sustainability, and development.

As The UWI St. Augustine Campus celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2025 under the theme Beyond 65: From the Caribbean, For the World, it pays tribute to its Caribbean roots while highlighting its contributions to solving global challenges. This milestone underscores the campus's significant role in producing ground-breaking research and fostering talent that transcends regional boundaries to shape a better world. The UWI St. Augustine’s researchers, academics, and graduates continue to make an international impact, exemplifying the university’s mission to serve the region while influencing the world.

Learn more at www.uwi.edu 

 

 

Contact