I note the concern of a recent graduate from the University of the West Indies (UWI) (published April 6) but disagree with the claims made about wastage of money.

The bookroom which has long been a source of concern among students who felt that the services offered were inadequate is an enhancement to teaching and learning at the institution. The new facility, while it has a spectacular fountain, also offers students the opportunity to use books as resources without leaving the area, as chairs and desks are provided. The reality is that some of our students cannot afford these books!

As for the gazebos, how can we say that these are unnecessary? An institution such as this should have points of congregation for study and discourse on a plethora of topics. Last year, we were the ones who complained about the lack of such places and how 'tacky' it was that students were relegated to discussions under trees.

Greater accommodation

As a student leader, I am aware of the need for greater accommodation on campus. The UWI has pledged 1,000 additional rooms for the new academic year. There will always be a need for space, however, and I have yet to see any university to house a majority of its students. The most that can be done is to enhance the nearby volatile communities, which the UWI continues to do through outreach and community development programmes. The institution's strategic plan for 2012 includes all these efforts as well as modernised classrooms, current resources and healthy appealing surroundings.

The difference, I suspect, between the graduate and me is that I recognise the UWI's limitations but also see the vision. The campus today is not the campus of the 1990s. That, to me, is progress not wastage.

I am, etc.,

ROGER BENT

savourb@yahoo.com

Chancellor Hall

UWI, Mona

Kingston 7