The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, has received grant funding of US$90,000 from the Japanese government for the construction of a gymnasium, which will be used primarily for the development of artistic gymnastics at the institution.
The gymnasium, to be completed within the next three months, will be built to specifications that will support the training of gymnasts, through collaboration with Japanese coaches from Nishida’s Gymnastics.
The facility will allow students to train in a facility that is built for the core purpose of developing their talents, sports acumen and capabilities, through the provision of the appropriate space and equipment.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UWI, Professor Archibald McDonald, speaking at a signing and cheque hand-over ceremony at the UWI Council Room, on the campus, today (March 2), said the facility will likely encourage more interest in the sport amongst students and the wider public, and from an academic perspective, foster greater interest in physical education. He noted that the facility will also enable the UWI to provide more community development youth sports activities to neighboring communities.
Professor McDonald expressed appreciation to the Japanese government, adding that he is pleased to be able to strengthen the bonds, as a tertiary institution, with the government and people of Japan, and is looking forward to maintaining a strong relationship for the advancement of education.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Masanori Nakano, gave a commitment to continuing the cooperation and exchanges in the field of sports and education between Jamaica and Japan.
