The Honorable Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Hospitality and Tourism Management by the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) at a ceremony held at the National Arena in St. Andrew. The event, themed "It's a New Beginning... Rise and Take Your Place," not only honored Bartlett but also highlighted the significant achievements of the UCC and its commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

In his commencement address, Minister Bartlett praised the UCC for its crucial role in higher education in Jamaica, emphasizing how the institution has evolved to become the largest unaffiliated private higher education institution in the country. With over 7,000 students across five campuses, the UCC offers a variety of programs designed to meet the demands of the global job market, including a notable Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management.

Bartlett highlighted the strategic importance of programs like these for developing the workforce in Jamaica's tourism sector, noting that they not only prepare students for immediate employment but also equip them with essential skills for long-term professional growth. He also emphasized the collaboration between the UCC and the Ministry of Tourism to further strengthen the industry, including initiatives like the Jamaica Tourism Innovation Center and the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program.

In a global context where technology and artificial intelligence play increasingly important roles, Bartlett stressed the need for UCC graduates to lead the integration of these innovations into the tourism industry. These advancements, he noted, will not only enhance the competitiveness of Jamaica's tourism product but also contribute to its long-term sustainability.

The ceremony, which also included the installation of Professor Colin Gyles as the fourth president of the UCC, concluded with the recognition of Bartlett and other distinguished individuals with honorary doctorates for their inspiring contributions to their respective fields. With approximately 1,000 graduates and over 6,500 guests present, this event marked a significant milestone in the history of the UCC and Jamaica's educational landscape.

In summary, the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate on the Honorable Edmund Bartlett reflects his commitment to advancing Jamaican tourism and his recognition for his outstanding career in the sector.