News Releases

UWI introduces The Wellness Factor

For Release Upon Receipt - August 3, 2009

St. Augustine


The University of the West Indies is introducing a Wellness Programme for its employees with a Wellness Fair to launch it on Thursday August 13th, 2009 from 11.30 am to 4.30 pm in front of the Daaga Auditorium, St Augustine campus.

This Programme is an initiative which was agreed to by the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union and The University of the West Indies, and it broadens the traditional Employee Assistance Programme by adding a Wellness dimension (EAWP) to meet the challenges of the times.

Lifestyle diseases like cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease and stroke have been claiming the lives of people all over the world in record proportions. These diseases can be alleviated by simple changes in eating habits along with regular physical activity.

UWI’s EAWP will be supported internally by the Sport and Physical Education Centre, the Health Service Unit and the Faculty of Medical Sciences, and externally by the Health Communications Unit of the Ministry of Health.

Using the Wellness Fair as a kick-off, the programme will include health forums, lectures and seminars to educate on healthier lifestyle choices in terms of exercise and nutrition, mental and emotional wellbeing and stress management.

 

Services already available for UWI staff under the EAP include:

Anger management and conflict resolution

Crisis trauma debriefing

Stress management for managers and employees

HIV/AIDS prevention and counseling

Grief therapy

Financial counseling

Male and female health problems and sexuality

Health and safety awareness

Acupuncture therapy

 

At the launch on August 13th, there will be several booths offering blood pressure and sugar level testing, mini massages and oral care advice. Samples of products that promote healthy lifestyles will also be available, as well as fun activities like spin challenges and taebo.

It is all a part of The UWI’s commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of its community by promoting healthier ways of life.

For further information, please feel free to contact the Human Resources Division of The UWI at Ext. 2312, 2313, 4239.

 

 

Contact

  • Human Resources Department

  • Tel.: (868)-662-2002 Exts 2312, 2313, 4239.
  • Email: