Who we are
The UWI Centre for Community Outreach and Development (CCOD) originated from a 2011 initiative by the Centre for Tourism and Policy Research, led by Professor Ian Boxill.
Initially launched as the Greater August Town Film Project (GATFP), it was designed as a community tourism experiment, supported by Mona Social Services and the Grace Kennedy Foundation. The project’s mission was to teach filmmaking to inner-city youth, providing them with marketable skills for future employment. Over time, the program evolved into the UWI Community Film Project (UWICFP), expanding into Kingston and Montego Bay communities, training over 500 graduates.
In 2013, GATFFEST was created as a platform to showcase films produced by UWICFP students. What began as a small festival has since grown into Jamaica’s largest film festival, attracting filmmakers worldwide and becoming a premier cultural event. The festival partners with various international embassies to promote cultural exchange, furthering its support for local and international filmmakers.
In 2020, the UWICFP merged with Mona Social Services (MSS) to form the MSS/UWICFP entity, enhancing its outreach and operational efficiency. Established in 2008, MSS has implemented over 20 initiatives across 13 communities surrounding UWI Mona, impacting more than 10,000 lives. The merger helped consolidate programs focused on education, skills training, and community development.
In August 2023, the MSS/UWICFP was rebranded as the Centre for Community Outreach and Development (CCOD) under the leadership of Ms Savannah Peridot. Continuing its dedication to community development, the CCOD launched a new content creation course in early 2024, equipping local youth with marketable digital skills. This hands-on program has proven successful, highlighting the University of the West Indies’ commitment to empowering underserved communities through education and outreach.
Mission Statement
To lead the social and economic transformation of underserved communities within the Mona Valley through research, knowledge creation and community engagement.
Vision Statement
To transform the Mona Valley into a place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.
Objectives
- To make the Mona Valley hospitable for business and drive Job Creation
- To generate revenue through fee-based income, consultancy services and grants.
- To strengthen the capacity of community-based organisations in the Mona Valley
- To facilitate networking opportunities and forge relationships for the population of the Mona Valley with major stakeholders (the Private Sector, the Social Development Commission, the Parish Council and The University of the West Indies).
- To become an agent for financial institutions seeking to do business in the Mona Valley.