The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) today conferred the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus upon Senator Professor the Honourable Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to higher education, engineering innovation, and national development.

The ceremony, held at UTT's Chaguanas Campus, was attended by Members of the Board of Governors, senior university officials, faculty, students, and special guests. The University's Deputy Chairman, Professor Chris Maharaj, together with Acting President, Professor Rean Maharaj delivered Remarks during the momentous occasion. Professor Persad subsequently gave the Feature Address, in which he expressed deep gratitude upon receiving this distinguished honour.

In his address, Acting President Maharaj described the conferment as "one of the most uplifting duties in the life of a university - to honour a scholar, mentor, and leader whose life's work has been a beacon of excellence and national service." He lauded Professor Persad's decades-long academic career, noting that his research and leadership have indelibly shaped the evolution of engineering education in Trinidad and Tobago.

Professor Maharaj highlighted Professor Persad’s exceptional record as a Professor of Mechatronics, Fellow of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago (APETT). He commended his pioneering research in robotics, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy, which earned international recognition and numerous national awards, including the Prime Minister’s Award for Invention and Innovation, the Naipaul Medal (2023), and the Commonwealth of Learning Honorary Fellowship (2025).

Deputy Chairman of the Board of Governors, Professor Chris Maharaj, in bringing greetings on behalf of the Board, reflected on his 25-year association with Professor Persad. He described him as "a calm, composed, and visionary leader - one who listens deeply and acts decisively." He praised Professor Persad's lifelong commitment to enhancing the innovative capabilities of the University and his ongoing vision to harmonise and elevate the nation's tertiary education and skills training institutions.

In his response, Professor Persad expressed heartfelt appreciation to the University for the honour bestowed upon him, stating that the recognition "marks an important junction in my career - the transition from a paid position of professor to an unpaid honorary one, where acknowledgement can be more important than salary."

Reflecting on his 44-year academic journey that began in 1980 at The University of the West Indies and continued at UTT from 2006 to 2025, he reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the University's mission through mentorship, research, and policy leadership. "I have firm belief in the potential of universities to drive national and economic progress. UTT must continue to serve as a catalyst for innovation and diversification," he said.

Professor Persad also encouraged staff and students to uphold the values of courage, integrity, collegiality, and sincerity of purpose, noting that the academic community's resilience is vital to national development.

He closed his remarks with characteristic humility and humour, recalling the advice of his PhD supervisor to "have fire in your belly for research" - a principle that has guided his four-decade career as an educator, engineer, and public servant.

The conferment of the title of Professor Emeritus signifies UTT's enduring appreciation for Professor Persad's outstanding scholarship, mentorship, and service - and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.