Avellon Williams
ROSEAU, DOMINICA – The news has enthused the nation with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit announcing in parliament on Tuesday that the island has entered into an agreement for the establishment of an offshore medical school.
Since Ross University left Dominica for Barbados under controversial circumstances nearly four years ago, it has been one of the most controversial departures in the island’s history.
Skerrit said the government had received several expressions of interest regarding the establishment of a medical school in the north following Ross’ departure.
“I am pleased to announce that after several months of negotiations, the government has entered into an agreement with CSOM Holdings Limited for the operation of a medical school at the former Ross University campus at Picard that will be named the American Canadian School of Medicine,” he said.
A four-year medical degree will be offered at the school for students who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree, Skerrit said.
The school will be run by an experienced team that includes doctors who have held positions at major universities in the United States, including a former Ross University School of Medicine vice president of operations.
According to Skerrit, the majority of the university’s students are expected to come from Canada, the United States, and Caribbean countries, and plans have begun for the September 2023 commencement, which will accelerate in the months ahead.
“I urge all Dominicans to be prepared for the opportunities, which will be created with the return of a medical school to Portsmouth,” he said.
“We are optimistic about the potential of this new school and its positive impact on Dominica and the people in the north in particular.”
