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Private-Public Partnerships (PPPs) are a vital aspect of the strategic development of the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies. It engages the private sector in funding tertiary education which is a key element in human and national development. It’s a win-win situation.
The role of Private-Public Partnerships (PPP) on the Mona Campus can be summarized under three broad headings:
- Fund infrastructural development
- Generate revenue
- Ultimately bring down the cost of tertiary education
We begin from the realisation that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ model; rather, the model will depend on the nature of the project and its objectives. At the present time, we have two models operating while two others are being developed.
There are six stages of private-public partnership development: First, we identify the partner best suited for the project; next, we agree on the model to be used; third we craft the legal instrument or Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV); the fourth stage is to seek approval; then we implement the project; and finally, manage the operation. There are two existing projects up and running, namely, student housing and a water project. A third, a cogeneration plant, is at a very advanced stage of development. Four other projects-- staff housing, a Campus Centre, a hotel, and redevelopment of the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI)—are being considered.
About the Author
UWI Pro-Vice Chancellor and Principal, Mona Campus, UWI.
Professor Archibald McDonald is UWI Pro-Vice Chancellor and Principal, Mona Campus, UWI.
