Grange, UTech president pay tribute to Alfred Sangster

The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has paid tribute to former president of the University of Technology, Dr Alfred Sangster, for his contribution to the development of local athletics, transformation of UTech and safeguarding of Jamaica's democracy.

Sangster died Monday night at age 95.

Grange said his contribution to the development of track athletics in Jamaica is one of his standout achievements and accomplishments.

“Led by his conviction that Jamaican athletes could achieve excellence while attending local colleges and universities and coached by Jamaicans, Dr Sangster partnered with the late Dennis Johnson, a former 100 yards world record holder, to establish a facility to provide such training at his institution. This has paid off big time with Jamaica producing world-class athletes trained right here at home and by local coaches," Grange said in a statement on Tuesday.

She also noted that as an educator, Sangster presided over the transformation of the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) into UTech.

Sangster, a son of St Elizabeth, will also be remembered as the founding chairman of the local election watchdog organisation, Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), established in 1997, she said. Grange noted that since then, CAFFE has been consistently observing general elections, local government elections, and by-elections.

He received the Order of Distinction (CD) in 1982, and the Order of Jamaica in 1995.

He was inducted into the Munro College Old Boys Association Hall of Fame and the UTech auditorium was renamed the Alfred Sangster Auditorium.

UTech President, Dr Kevin Brown, expressed "profound sadness" at Sangster's death.

"We extend heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, wishing them comfort and strength during this time of loss. Dr Sangster’s extraordinary contributions have left an indelible mark on the university and the nation," Brown said.

Sangster’s tenure at UTech, Jamaica, spanned from September 1970 to his retirement in July 1996.

Brown said his visionary leadership propelled the institution to new heights, ensuring that it became a beacon of academic excellence in the Caribbean.

"Dr. the Hon. Alfred Sangster, OJ, was not just an educator and administrator; he was a visionary, a mentor, and a builder of institutions. His work at CAST/UTech laid the foundation for countless individuals to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness. An avid sportsman and a true patriot, his memory will continue to inspire generations," Brown continued.

He said the University of Technology, Jamaica, is committed to further honouring Sangster’s memory in a manner befitting his monumental legacy.

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