American Canadian School of Medicine to Commence Classes in September-PM Skerrit

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is optimistic about the prospects for the American Canadian School of Medicine, which will formally open its doors in Picard, Portsmouth in September.

“I am happy to report that the school is on track to begin operations in September with a roll of approximately 50 students. Enrollment is expected to increase at the start of the Spring Semester in January of 2024,” Prime Minister Skerrit said in an update to the media on Wednesday.

He said he, along with members of the Cabinet and senior public officers, met last week with representatives of the International Agency for Accreditation and Rating (IAAR) to discuss areas of collaboration between the Government of Dominica and the university.

“From our recent visit to the Campus, I am assured that preparations for the first semester are progressing well.

“I assured the accreditors and the university personnel of our government’s support for the school’s mission to provide high-quality education to medical students from Dominica and abroad. We are seeking to build a strong, mutually beneficial partnership with the school, from which our students and people can realize long-term benefits,” he said.

Prime Minister Skerrit with representatives of the International Agency for Accreditation and Rating (IAAR)

The Prime Minister said Government will enter a Social Partnership Agreement with the American Canadian School of Medicine, to provide access to medical facilities for teaching. The school will assist Dominica in the delivery of healthcare and the development of coursework at the Dominica State College.

“Dominican students will be able to access medical studies at the school’s Picard Campus with the opportunity to complete their clinical rotation in the state of California, USA. According to our agreement, the school will award scholarships to Dominican students on a yearly basis,” Mr. Skerrit said.

He added that a number of Dominicans will be employed at the school.

“The Government of Dominica is excited about the economic prospects for Portsmouth and the North over the long term, and we are committed to playing our part to ensure that the new school is a success,” he stated.