By Britney Stevens
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (JIS) – The government is considering what support could be provided to Jamaican students in Cuba, whose studies are being affected by fuel shortages and electricity disruptions in that country.
Speaking at the post-cabinet press briefing held at Jamaica House on February 11, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade, senator Kamina Johnson Smith, said the matter was discussed by Cabinet earlier this week as authorities continue to monitor developments.
More than 300 Jamaicans are pursuing studies in Cuba, including 44 on the Jamaica/Cuba scholarship programme and approximately 256 who are privately funded.
Senator Johnson Smith reported that several institutions have temporarily closed or have shifted to online delivery, due to ongoing utility challenges, with one institution suspending classes, affecting six students under the scholarship programme. She noted that 13 privately funded students have taken the decision to return home, but that most students are seeking to continue their programmes.
“It is very unfortunate that students are adversely affected… but we understand that the prevailing intent among the majority of the student body is for the continuation of studies,” Senator Johnson Smith said.
The ministry has been receiving and reviewing daily updates from the embassy in Havana and has established direct communication channels with students.
“We’ve established a WhatsApp group with approximately 320 students for direct and ongoing contact,” she informed. Additionally, students have been encouraged to consult their academic institutions regarding academic arrangements and to discuss options with parents or guardians, particularly if disruptions worsen.
For privately funded students, the minister said local institutions may be consulted to explore options for continuing their studies if disruptions persist, though academic requirements could make this challenging.
“It is hoped that engagements with local institutions might be able to identify options about how they could be facilitated,” she noted. The ministry has also sought guidance from Cuban authorities on the availability of transcripts for students, who may need them to continue studies elsewhere.
“We continue to monitor the situation… and to keep the avenue of communication open,” the minister added.