The Faculty of Sport has seen significant progress over the past year, marked by enhancements in programme offerings and successful grant acquisitions.

The undergraduate programmes experienced a notable increase in enrolment across all academies, with many graduates returning for postgraduate studies. New programmes, including the MSc in Global Sport Discrimination and Reparative Justice, gained Board approval in May, alongside the development of the BSc in Sport Studies and the MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology. However, a freeze on sports scholarships at Mona has severely limited opportunities for talented athletes, reducing scholarships from 130 to 5. In response, the Faculty Board approved a new scholarship proposal. Additionally, the Faculty has made considerable strides in developing certificate programmes with international partners, covering topics such as Sports Nutrition, Sport Administration, Turf Maintenance, and Pitch Preparation, expecting positive outcomes in the upcoming year.

Cross-campus teaching continued via the Cross-Campus Moodle platform, aiding experiential learning opportunities. Students enhanced their Sports Marketing skills through partnerships with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) during the 2023 tournament. They also participated in the T20 World Cup, focusing on anti-doping and carbon emissions monitoring. The collaboration with SPORTT and the Ministry of Sport and Community Development in Trinidad enabled student volunteering at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games. The CCC Team re-engaged with 50-over and first-class cricket, generating income from ground rentals and accommodation services.

Publications have played a vital role in the Faculty’s outreach, with Dr. Alleyne’s article on “Whistleblowing in Sport” and a book chapter on sport tourism being notable contributions. Faculty members have been actively presenting their research at key conferences, with Dr. Rampersad representing the Faculty at prestigious events in Croatia and Guyana. The Faculty maintained a significant presence in regional media, publishing over 30 articles across columns in the Trinidad Guardian and the Jamaica Gleaner, showcasing the work of faculty, graduate students, and guest contributors. Dr. Rampersad also continued his weekly column, “Sportification,” which he initiated before joining the Faculty. Five research seminars were also conducted, featuring presentations from faculty and MPhil students.

The Faculty established new MOUs with Rajasthan Royals, CANOC, and Minus 2 Degrees (M2D). With Rajasthan Royals, specialised educational courses are set to be co-created for emerging sports scholars globally. The CANOC partnership aims to foster sports excellence, education, and community involvement in the Caribbean. At the same time, M2D focuses on sustainability solutions, reinforcing the Faculty’s commitment to monitoring carbon emissions at the T20 World Cup.

Engagement with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) has elevated the Faculty’s international profile. A collaborative project, the Sport and Health Capacity Development Initiative, seeks to boost physical activity by 30%, with the UWI’s involvement valued at US$220,000. The Faculty is tasked with developing the curriculum and materials for the continuing professional development course, which anticipates global participation.

Communication with international sports bodies has led to discussions with the PanAmerican Paralympic Association and the International Cricket Council about potential grant-aided projects for the following year. Mr. Kervin Jean, Head of the Global Campus Academy of Sport, secured research projects focusing on governance and economic models of high-performance structures in the Caribbean with CREPS Antilles and CANOC.

In celebration of The UWI’s 75th Anniversary, the Faculty organised simultaneous cricket matches across campuses on September 30, 2023. These matches engaged students, staff, alumni, and friends of the UWI and illustrated a strong community spirit within the Faculty.