KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica has lost a distinguished educator, visionary, and advocate for democracy with the passing of Dr. Alfred Sangster. The former president of the University of Technology (UTech) and founding chairman of Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE) died on Monday at the age of 95.
Dr. Sangster’s contributions spanned both education and governance, leaving an indelible mark on the nation. As one of the key architects of CAFFE, he played a crucial role in establishing Jamaica’s first independent election observer group in 1997, helping to restore public confidence in the electoral system. His leadership ensured that CAFFE mobilized thousands of volunteers to monitor elections, setting a precedent for transparency in the country’s democratic process.
Beyond his work with CAFFE, Dr. Sangster was a pioneering force in higher education. He led the transformation of the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) into UTech, becoming its first principal and later its first president. Under his leadership, the institution expanded its academic offerings and positioned itself as a leader in technical education in the Caribbean.
Colleagues and former students remember Dr. Sangster not just for his administrative excellence, but for his dedication to mentorship and national development. He was also an influential public commentator, shaping discourse on education, governance, and economic progress in the post-independence era.
In a statement, CAFFE honored his legacy, saying, “Dr. Sangster’s unwavering commitment to integrity and service helped build the foundation of Jamaica’s modern electoral process. His influence will be felt for generations to come.”
As Jamaica mourns the loss of this esteemed leader, his contributions to education, democracy, and civic engagement remain a lasting testament to his life’s work.
