Source: Caribbean Life
Several Jamaican students studying in Cuba are leaving the island amid a deepening economic crisis, exacerbated by a series of recent U.S. sanctions, including measures affecting the country’s access to critical fuel supplies, officials said this week.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith told a post-Cabinet media briefing that more than a dozen privately funded Jamaican students have temporarily abandoned their studies. She explained that classes have been disrupted, suspended, or moved online due to ongoing challenges on the island.
There are currently 320 Jamaican students studying in Cuba, 44 of whom are on government scholarships. The Minister said authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in contact with students at various universities across the country.
“It is very unfortunate that students are being adversely affected by a programme that has worked well for Caribbean students for many years. However, we understand that the prevailing intention among the majority of the student body at this time is to continue their studies,” she said.
To facilitate real-time communication, authorities have established a social media group comprising more than 300 students. The Minister noted that access to essential supplies, including medicine, may become challenging under current conditions.
She added that students have been advised to be prepared for a possible emergency evacuation if necessary. However, the Government does not currently believe there is a need for most students to leave Cuba.
“There is no indication of a widespread move to exit,” Johnson Smith said, noting that reports suggesting some Caribbean territories had negotiated early diplomas and arranged departures for their students were inaccurate. She indicated that regional governments, like Jamaica, are monitoring developments and maintaining close contact with their nationals.
The Minister also confirmed that her ministry has been in discussions with counterparts from other Caribbean countries whose students are studying in Cuba. The matter was extensively discussed during Monday’s Cabinet meeting, and consideration is being given to how the Government can further assist students in coping with the evolving situation.