KINGSTON, Jamaica- President of the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech), Dr Kevin Brown says the university community is saddened by the news that skeletal remains found at a beach in Portmore, St Catherine, are believed to be those of missing UTech student Anisa Dilworth.
“Our university community is deeply saddened by the devastating news that one of our students, Anisa Dilworth, has been found deceased after being reported missing since May 6, 2025. We mourn her loss and the tragic circumstances that is believed led to it. Our deepest sympathies are with Anisa’s family, friends and classmates, and all who knew and loved her as they grieve this unimaginable loss. Anisa was pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Technology in the College of Health Sciences. She was passionate about her field of study and had a promising career ahead of her,” Brown said in a statement on Monday.
Members of the academic and administrative staff of the institution also took to the streets on Monday to protest for women’s rights and the elimination of violence against women following the incident.
Brown said this incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the epidemic of crime and violence in our society.
“This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the epidemic of crime and violence in our society. No family should endure the pain of losing a loved one to senseless violence. Meaningful action is urgently needed at both the community and national levels to prevent such tragedies. In the coming days, our university will share ways in which our community will come together to honour Anisa’s memory and support one another. Counselling and support services are available to all students, faculty and staff through the University’s Chaplaincy and Counselling Unit. Additionally, we will be reviewing all security protocols for students and staff, particularly for students who live off campus. During this time of profound sadness, our university community will continue to keep Anisa’s family in our thoughts and prayers,” he said.
Brown also extended gratitude for the efforts of the police, search teams, and everyone who worked tirelessly over the past several days to locate Dilworth.
According to reports from the St Catherine South Police, about 11:30 am on Saturday, they were alerted to the discovery of skeletal remains at the beach and went to investigate. They said that while formal identification is pending forensic analysis, investigators believe the remains belong to Dilworth based on evidence found at the scene.
Dilworth was reported missing on May 7.