Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has hailed the enduring contribution of The Mico University College and its alumni, describing the institution as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s educational development and national character.
Delivering the keynote address at The Mico Old Students’ Association New York Chapter Gala, held recently at the Glen Terrace in Brooklyn to celebrate the organisation’s 51st anniversary, Ambassador Anderson praised the Association for its decades of service to Jamaica through scholarships, mentorship, and student support.
Addressing alumni and supporters, he commended the Association’s commitment to nation-building, noting that generations of Mico graduates have made significant contributions, not only to education but also across diverse professional fields worldwide.
“For 51 years you have been supporting many young people who have gone on to do great things. Wherever Jamaicans go, communities benefit significantly from having us there, because we build and strengthen the communities in which we live,” the Diplomat stated.
He encouraged the organisation to continue engaging younger graduates, ensuring that the institution’s legacy and traditions are preserved and passed on to future generations.
“There is a need to strengthen the connection between younger Jamaicans overseas and Jamaica,” Ambassador Anderson said, highlighting the growing interest among members of the diaspora in reclaiming Jamaican citizenship and reconnecting with their roots.
He also reflected on the changing landscape of education, driven by advances in technology, artificial intelligence and global connectivity. He said institutions such as The Mico must continue adapting to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world.
He also reflected on the evolving landscape of education, shaped by advances in technology, artificial intelligence, and global connectivity.
Ambassador Anderson emphasised that institutions such as The Mico must continue adapting to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.
“Education is changing. Schools are becoming places, not mainly for the transfer of knowledge but for social development and critical thinking,” he stated. “The challenge is to ensure our young people are prepared to leverage the opportunities that new technologies present,” he stated.
Ambassador Anderson cited an upcoming technology summit involving The Mico and leading international technology companies, including Microsoft and Google, as evidence that the institution is positioning itself to meet future educational demands.
He further underscored the importance of discipline, high standards, and character formation in education – qualities that, he noted, have long distinguished Mico-trained teachers.
Ambassador Anderson recalled influential teachers from his childhood who shaped not only his academic development but also his character and worldview.
“The teachers we remember most are not only the ones who transferred knowledge, but those who impacted our character and exposed us to things beyond the classroom,” he stated.
The Ambassador also paid tribute to legendary educators associated with The Mico, including former Principal, Renford Shirley, whom he described as a guardian of educational standards and a firm believer that only committed and capable individuals should enter the teaching profession.
He congratulated the Association for its continued service and philanthropy, including the assistance provided to Jamaica following the passage of Hurricane Melissa last year.
“You are writing the story for future generations. The work you continue to do in giving back to Jamaica is invaluable.” Ambassador Anderson told the gathering.
The Mico University College Alumni Association – New York Chapter (MOSA-NY) is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to uniting past students of The Mico in the United States, supporting their alma mater in Jamaica, and funding community scholarships.
