The Government has granted approval for the Caribbean Maritime Institute to become Jamaica’s newest University.

It is a move which left the Executive Director of the Institution Dr. Fritz Pinnock very emotional as he sat in Parliament listening to the presentations from both side of the House. Following the pronouncement, he said that he was overwhelmed by the tremendous show of support from both side of the House as he listened to the debate on the Bill which was piloted by Transport Minister Hon. Lester ‘Mike’ Henry.

“It has been a journey; it is more than just getting University status – it is about changing the education and training landscape. Today is a victory for the young people without a voice…I saw our country moving on an issue that was not politics,” Dr. Pinnock emphasized.

For his part, Transport Minister Mike Henry said that he was extremely elated at the news. 

“University status means that the Institute’s offerings will add to the menu of educational offerings for the nation’s young people and will provide yet another opportunity for the Institute to make a meaningful contribution to Jamaica’s economic development. Not only that, this is another giant step in the realization of the multi-modal transport system which will ultimately assist in transforming this nation to that place our VISION 2030 speaks of – the place of choice to live, work, do business and raise families,” the Minister asserted.

Just recently ground was broken at the Institution for the construction of a FESTO Centre, an accreditation which is similar to ACCA in the Accounts field or CISCO in the computer field.

About 87% of CMI graduates are employed or start higher studies within six months after leaving according to a CMI trace study. The 37 year old Institution which now boasts a student body of over 3,000 is expected to become a University by the end of the year, barring any unforeseen circumstances.