UCC commencement 2026 to celebrate approximately 1,000 graduands and honour three distinguished global leaders

The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) is preparing to celebrate the most significant milestone in its academic calendar as it hosts Commencement 2026 on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at 9:00 am at the National Arena in Kingston.

Held under the theme “Journey to the Finish: Celebrating Success, Inspiring Futures,” the ceremony will recognise the achievements of a new cohort of graduates who have successfully completed programmes across a range of disciplines and levels of study. 

This year’s Commencement reflects UCC’s ongoing commitment to developing leaders, innovators, and professionals who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to Jamaica, the Caribbean, and the global community.

Approximately 1000 graduands are expected to participate in the ceremony, marking the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence. The event will bring together graduates, faculty, staff, alumni, corporate partners, government representatives, and distinguished guests in recognition of this important achievement. 

The ceremony will be streamed live to enable family members, friends, alumni, and thousands of our prospective on-site and virtual supporters around the world to participate in the celebration.

As part of the proceedings, UCC will honour three outstanding nation builders whose contributions have had a transformative impact on business, education, community development, and humanitarian service.

Among the distinguished honourees are:

●       Mr. Nathaniel Peat, Black Advisory Board Member to Lloyds Banking Group, Co-Founder of the EY Foundation UK, Founder of The Safety Box, and Co-Founder of GenNEX Solar, who will be awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters (D.H.L.), Honoris Causa.

●       Dame Beverly Lindsay DBE, OD, DL, Founder and General Manager of Diamond Travel in Birmingham, United Kingdom, Founder member and current Chair of the Association of Jamaican Nationals UK, Board Member of the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce, and recently appointed as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by King Charles lll, who will also receive the Doctor of Humane Letters (D.H.L.), Honoris Causa.

●       The Most Honourable Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer, OJ, CD, renowned academic, geriatrician, and advocate for senior citizens, who will be presented with the university’s Humanitarian Award in recognition of her outstanding service to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, university president Professor Colin Gyles noted that Commencement represents the beginning of new opportunities and the acknowledgement of stellar leadership.

“Commencement is a celebration of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. As our graduands embark on the next chapter of their journeys, we are proud to recognise not only their accomplishments but also the remarkable individuals whose leadership and service continue to inspire future generations.”