UCC to install global thought leaders as chancellor, pro-chancellor

The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) is set to install two internationally renowned visionaries at its 2025 Commencement Ceremony, set for July 20 at the National Arena in Kingston. They are University of Sunderland’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Emeritus Professor John MacIntyre as chancellor, and UWI Professor Emeritus Anthony Clayton as pro-chancellor.

Both appointments signal UCC’s commitment to shaping the future of higher education, economic transformation, and ethical innovation through strategic academic stewardship.

With more than 30 years at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) and academic leadership, MacIntyre has carved a distinguished path in ethical AI, research governance, and technological innovation. Formerly pro-vice-chancellor of the University of Sunderland, UK, he is a globally respected scholar with more than 200 publications and editorial roles in neural computing and applications, and AI and ethics. His work in predictive technologies and digital education makes him an ideal fit to assist in steering UCC through an era defined by rapid technological change.

CLAYTON’S PROFILE

Joining him in this leadership ascent is Clayton, one of the Caribbean’s most prolific policy strategists and scholars. A long-time advocate for sustainable development, energy innovation, and national security, Clayton’s advisory footprint spans the United Nations, Commonwealth Secretariat, CARICOM, and the World Bank. His previous role as chair of the Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica and membership on the Climate Change Advisory Board demonstrate his enduring influence in national and regional policymaking.

“The appointments of professors MacIntyre and Clayton are not merely ceremonial; they represent a transformative moment in UCC’s evolution,” stated Professor Colin Gyles, president of UCC. “Both men are distinguished scholars and architects of real-world change, bringing to UCC unparalleled depth in academic excellence, global foresight, and ethical governance. This kind of influence is essential to sustaining our momentum and preparing our graduates to lead with impact.”

Dr Winston Adams, founder and group executive chairman of the UCC/SPECTRUM Groups, added, “These leaders embody the rare blend of intellectual leadership and strategic vision that is required to navigate the complexities of our global future. At UCC, we are committed to building an institution that doesn’t just confer degrees, but produces global citizens and transformative leaders.”