The UWI Regional Headquarters, Jamaica. Wednesday, July 29, 2020. The following statement is issued by Robert Bermudez, Chancellor of The University of the West Indies (The UWI), in tribute to the late Rt. Honourable Owen Arthur.

The Caribbean has lost a true champion of regional integration with the passing of the Rt. Hon Owen Arthur. His leadership in operationalising the CARICOM Single Market is but one of his enduring legacies, and the region is the beneficiary of his commitment to getting that project underway. The UWI is proud of its distinguished alumnus, who was fearless and outspoken on issues of reticence by member countries of CARICOM to embrace closer integration and his voice in support of the full realisation of the dream of the founding fathers will be sorely missed.

He will be fondly and respectfully remembered for his political acuity and skilful management of the affairs of his beloved Barbados both as Prime Minister and in Opposition.

My sincere condolences are extended to his immediate family and the people of Barbados. May he rest in peace.

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About Chancellor Robert Bermudez
Robert Bermudez is the 6th Chancellor of The University of the West Indies. His seven-year term officially began on July 16, 2017. A national of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Bermudez has been an entrepreneur for over 40 years. He led the growth of his family-owned business, to a regional business throughout the Caribbean and Latin America and has enjoyed a distinguished career in business, serving as either Chairman or Board Director for several other corporate bodies in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean. His vision for the University outlines a keen sense of the mission, effectiveness, relevance and interdependence of academia and the economy.