FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Attention: All News Editors
KINGSTON, Jamaica, November 5, 2026: The University Council of Jamaica (UCJ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Colin Gyles as its new Executive Director, effective November 2, 2026.
Professor Gyles brings extensive operational and strategic experience in higher education, academic leadership and institutional development. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a PhD in Chemistry from The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, and attained the rank of Full Professor of Applied Sciences in 2013.
His distinguished career includes serving as Deputy President and Acting President of the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech), as well as founding Dean of its Faculty of Science and Sport. In April 2024, he was appointed President of the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean. His contributions to education and national development have earned him the Prime Minister’s Medal of Appreciation for Service to Education (2017) and the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (2022).
Commenting on the appointment, the Chairman of the UCJ, Mrs Andria Whyte Walters, outlined the Council’s expectations for Professor Gyles’ tenure:
“Professor Gyles brings a distinguished record of academic leadership and institutional development, along with a sound understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing higher education. His expertise and vision will be valuable as the Council continues to strengthen quality assurance, support institutional development and maintain public confidence in the quality of higher education in Jamaica. We also look forward to his leadership in advancing the Council’s mandate and helping to position Jamaica as an attractive destination for international students.”
In welcoming his appointment, Professor Gyles expressed his commitment to building on the Council’s achievements and strengthening its relationships with stakeholders.
“I am honoured to take on this responsibility and look forward to working with the Council’s staff and stakeholders. My priority is to build on the UCJ’s achievements, strengthen collaboration with higher education institutions, ensure our quality assurance systems continue to enhance the quality and relevance of Jamaican higher education, strengthen public confidence at home and increase its appeal internationally.”
Professor Gyles’ appointment comes at an important time in the continued development of Jamaica’s higher education sector. The Council looks forward to his leadership as it advances its mandate, strengthens institutional accountability and promotes public confidence in the quality of higher education.
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About the University Council of Jamaica
The University Council of Jamaica (UCJ) is Jamaica’s national external quality assurance agency for higher education. Established in 1987, the Council facilitates and oversees the development and maintenance of a robust quality assurance system through standards development, accreditation, recognition, monitoring, credential assessment and capacity-building activities.
Media Contact:
Mr. Najae Murray
Director, Public Relations and Communication, UCJ
(876)585-7343
Email: najae.murray@ucj.org.jm
31 Windsor Avenue, Kingston