STOCK FARM, Roseau, September 29, 2021–   Dominica State College’s Academic Calendar required students to return to face-to-face learning in October 2021. However, at a meeting of the College Administration, a decision was taken to extend online classes to October 29, 2021. This decision resulted from information received from stakeholders. The data indicated that a significant number of students had contracted COVID-19.  Some were in home isolation, and others were at the COVID Hospital. Against that unstable background, it was decided to adhere to a safer and least disruptive learning environment by maintaining online learning, as the country continues to experience a relatively high prevalence of COVID-19. 

President of the College, Dr. Donald Peters, informed that several factors are being considered for the resumption of face-to-face learning.

“At this time, the safety of all our students, faculty, and staff are the single most important variable driving this decision. The College does not have the authority to make vaccination or testing mandatory. As a result, the risk of resuming face-to-face would be significant and could lead to an escalation in COVID-19 cases,” said Dr. Peters. “We have looked at November 9, 2021, as another possible date for face-to-face learning, but that decision to open would depend on the number of students who are vaccinated, the number of national live cases, and the ability of the institution to mandate COVID-19 guidelines and protocols. We are hoping, however, that by November 1, 2021, the country will hopefully see a significant reduction in new COVID-19 cases.”

The College encourages students and employees to continue following the COVID-19 guidelines released by the Ministry of Health and to take advantage of the vaccination drive. These responsible measures will facilitate the reopening of their campus.