Institute for Gender and Development Studies, Mona Unit

For the month of May and beyond, the IGDS MCU celebrates our nation’s children. This year, we join the nationwide observance of Child’s Month under the theme: “Prioritise Our Children’s Mental Health: Strong Minds, Safer Future.”

This theme highlights the importance of nurturing children’s mental health while safeguarding their well-being, development, and overall quality of life. By creating supportive environments where children feel heard, valued, and protected, we help build resilience, confidence, and stronger futures for generations to come.

In recognition of Child’s Month, Dr. Bean and Shawna Kae Burns served as guest presenters for Girls’ Day at Vere Technical High School () where they engaged students in meaningful discussions on identity, self-harm, and healthy coping mechanisms to support positive mental well-being. Their presentations underscored the importance of equipping young people with the tools, support, and awareness needed to navigate challenges and foster strong mental health.

As we observe Child’s Month, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to champion children’s mental wellness, promote positive relationships, and foster communities where every child can reach their full potential.🧠✨

The IGDS Mona Campus Unit extends warm wishes to all mothers—both those who have given birth and those who embrace the vital role of mothering in all its forms—a happy and blessed Mother’s Day.

Today, we celebrate and honour the resilient, nurturing, and dedicated women whose care, strength, and sacrifice help to sustain our families, communities, and wider society.

On this special day, we pay tribute to all who mother.

The IGDS MCU proudly wishes our academic staff a Happy Teachers’ Day 2026!

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, diligence, and commitment to shaping both present and future generations through education and mentorship. Your impact continues to inspire and empower.

Special appreciation to Dr. Dalea Bean, Dr. Isaac Dery, Ms. Carla Moore, and Dr. Whitney Richards-Calathes — your hard work and passion are truly valued and deeply appreciated.

The IGDS Mona Campus Unit (MCU) continues its Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in partnership with the Jamaica Household Workers Union, providing critical support to members who have been displaced.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Your donation—no matter the size—can help displaced families recover, rebuild, and regain hope.

To donate:
Account Name: Jamaica Household Workers Union
Bank: Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Ltd.
Account Number: 100929080
SWIFT: NOSCJMKN

(For international transfers, additional banking details available above.)

📩 Please send proof of contribution (including amount) to: [email protected]

The IGDS Mona Campus Unit extends its sincere appreciation to our administrative team—Nicole Edwards, Shamar Lester, and Thalia Ellis—for their dedication, consistency, and invaluable contributions that help sustain and strengthen our Institute.

Thank you, and Happy International Administrative Professionals Day 2026!

The IGDS MCU and RCO () extend sincere thanks to everyone from the UWI community and beyond who joined us for our Women’s Economic Empowerment Symposium, “Future-proofing Jamaica and the Caribbean: Research for Resilience, Revenue and Regional Leadership,” at UWI Mona Research Day 2026 on Thursday, March 26.

We are especially grateful to our distinguished panelists—Dr. Leith Dunn, Dr. Samuel Braithwaite, Mrs. R. Pasha Afflick-Bobb, and Mrs. Marva Allen-Simms—for their insightful contributions, and to our moderator, Dr. Isaac Dery, for guiding a rich and engaging discussion.

A heartfelt thank you as well to the incredible women entrepreneurs who showcased their businesses and added vibrancy to the Mini Business Expo:
Tai Images ()
Trapp'd Delight
Thoughtem Enterprises
Empressive Ites ()
Amoy’s Jewels ()
Netania's Comfort Wear ()
Joyé Aurea Studios ()
Craftables by Tacitus
The Shanna Method: Massage and Aromatics
Joluxe Beauty ()
My Mind’s Designs ()
Body Piercing by Jordee ()
Stazlab ()

We were also honoured by the visit of The Honourable Floyd O’Brian Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, who took the time to engage with our exhibitors and show support for their innovation and entrepreneurship.

From thought-provoking panel discussions to impactful research displays and a dynamic Mini Business Expo—thank you for being part of a day dedicated to connection, learning, and empowerment. 💫