Letter of the Day | Is UWI a dancehall or an academic institution?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I read with a mixture of amusement and concern the plans by The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, to attract private investors for the Mona Visitors’ Lodge.

As a faculty member, I wish nothing but the best for our great 75-year-old institution, but the words “our core business is teaching, learning and research” left me scratching my head as I recalled the instances of window rattling noise which disrupt the peace of College Common; the otherwise peaceful space occupied by academics, administrators and their families.

Our discomfort, however, is minor when one considers the wall-rattling noise students of some halls of residence endured some weeks ago as they prepared for their midterm examinations. I have had cause to ask the question, as I do now, is UWI Mona a dancehall or an academic institution?

For the record, I have no problem with dancehall music. I have no problem with soca either. What I have an issue with is the lack of a noise policy at a university with the scientific expertise to deal with these matters and set the standards for the wider Jamaican society.

Instead we allow the bacchanal of noise which pervades many spaces in Jamaica to invade the campus. As a graduate student in Philadelphia, I recall a Caribbean party put on by a student organisation. The party was held literally across the road (Broad Street) from where I resided and I could not hear a “peep” of the baseline on Mr Vegas’ Bruk It Down. I eventually headed over and took in the vibes. The party was held in a building on campus, above ground as opposed to the basement.

I understand the preference for open air parties, what is needed, therefore, are “sound walls” and other noise-reducing initiatives. And, of course, we can lower the level of the bass, especially at night when sound is known to travel more easily. Decibel standards can also be established by UWI scientists; every smartphone is a potential decibel meter.

To potential investors, I say seek a guarantee from UWI, Mona, that your guests wouldn’t have to endure noise pollution.

SAMUEL BRAITHWAITE

Department of Economics

UWI, Mona