Education Minister questions why more Bajan students not choosing US universities

Learning from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) – Attracting US Scholar and Students to the Eastern Caribbean and Establishing University Partnerships at Hilton Barbados, she said that despite the many benefits of studying in the US, the interest shown by local and regional students has been lukewarm. “A review of the students who access Barbados scholarships and exhibitions sponsored by the Government of Barbados reveals that the majority choose to attend Canadian and UK universities, rather than US universities and colleges,” she said. Pointing out that US educational institutions offer great flexibility in course selection, a large market of opportunities for practical experience in jobs, and a tremendous scope for networking and career advancement, she said: “With these remarkable offerings then, it triggers broader questions which I hope would receive some attention. Among those questions might be: is the cost of education more affordable in other countries; is the student visa process simpler [elsewhere]; are Caribbean students aware that after graduation they may be eligible to apply for optional, practical training; is there a more welcoming environment for international students in different places? “These and more are things to consider because as we seek to partner, it is important for us not only to make sure that the goals and the ambitions of the partners are the same, but that we share the same values, and that the space that we create for our partnership is indeed conducive to all us,” Minister McConney contended. (SB)]]>