UTT Introduces Mandatory Course On T&T's History And Culture
Students at the University of Trinidad and Tobago will soon be required to study the history and culture of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Chairman of UTT, Professor Emeritus Selwyn Cudjoe ORTT, presided over Monday’s launch of the new mandatory course at the academic institution, entitled The History and Culture of Trinidad and Tobago.
He described its significance to UTT graduates.
« We contend that one cannot define oneself as an educated Trinbagonian unless one knows something about the history and culture of Trinidad and Tobago. It is designed to expose students to the development of Trinidad and Tobago as a nation, as a people, through its historical and cultural evolution. »
Acting President of UTT, Professor Rean Maharaj, explained the purpose of the new course.
« Its purpose is to deepen our students’ understanding of Trinidad and Tobago, its history, its people, its complexities and its beauty. The students would explore the journeys of the many peoples who came to these islands, examine the historical forces that shaped our society, appreciate our festivals, traditions and cultural expressions and gain a richer understanding of what it truly means to be a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago. »
Assistant Vice President of Undergraduate Studies at UTT, Dr Solange Kelly, explained that the course will now be a required course for every UTT student.
« Beginning with the September 2026 intake, every UTT undergraduate will engage with the history and culture of our country as a graduation requirement. We are quite deliberate in teaching our students who they are: their identity, their DNA. The long and layered inheritance that shaped them before they came through the walls of UTT. »
The new course was designed by Dr Kelly, Dr Shaheda Hosein, Dr Kayla Francis and Dr May-Lis Thomas Bailey Ellis.
