The UWI congratulates The Hon. Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC on her Historic Re-election as Prime Minister

The University of the West Indies (The UWI) congratulates The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC, who has been declared Prime Minister-elect after leading her political party to victory in the general election held on April 28.

Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, congratulated Mrs. Persad-Bissessar on her “resounding victory” in the election, highlighting the significance of her historic journey. He stated, “Her re-election is a testament to the trust that the people have in her leadership and vision for the future of Trinidad and Tobago.” He added that her alma mater is ready to collaborate with her and her government to help fulfil the development aspirations of the country.

Mrs. Persad-Bissessar, a two-time UWI graduate, has an extensive educational background that includes a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, a Diploma in Education, and a Bachelor of Laws with Honours from UWI Cave Hill. She also holds an Executive Master’s in Business Administration (EMBA) from the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business.

The UWI community takes great pride in witnessing Mrs. Persad-Bissessar elected as Trinidad and Tobago’s ninth Prime Minister. With a network of over 237,000 alumni, UWI graduates are present in every sector of Caribbean society, including the highest levels of government and business. More than 25 alumni have become Heads of Government or Heads of State, while countless others hold leadership positions across various professions—both locally and internationally.

As one of the few female heads of government in the Caribbean, The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC is among the ranks of Mia Amor Mottley from Barbados, the late Dame Eugenia Charles of Dominica, Janet Jagan of Guyana, and Portia Simpson Miller of Jamaica—all notable women who have led their respective countries.