Increasing numbers of Jamaican students are seeking medical studies in Cuba. Recently five potential doctors received news that they will receive full scholarships to study in the Spanish island.
Osheen Bogue, Chantal Williams, Antoinette Fyffe, Maryln Perez and Jacques Heaven are the lucky recipients of full seven-year scholarships made possible by a bilateral program agreement with both nations.
It is understood that more than 180 Jamaican students currently live Cuba with more than 100 on scholarships.
Most are there pursuing degrees in medicine and are receiving free tuition, meals, study materials, boarding and medical care along with a small stipend.
Reportedly, the five winners were “chosen from more than 100 applicants following a rigorous selection process.”
According to Guanchez Hernandez, Cuban ambassador to Jamaica: “Cuba is committed to continue providing help with developing medicine in all countries.”
The ambassador said that more than 10,000 students from 70 countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean are currently studying medicine in Cuba.
During a ceremony at the Cuban embassy in Jamaica, the scholarship winners along with the representative for the English-speaking island Julian Robinson thanked the Cuban government. The state minister for science, technology, energy and mining, spoke at the official presentation saying he was grateful that despite “The harsh economic times” Cuba has remained committed to assisting Jamaica.
Bogue, who will leave for Cuba in September said the scholarship would “assist in advancing the dream of becoming a medical doctor.”
She said she was ready to capitalize on the opportunity and after completion of her studies would contribute to enhancing Jamaica’s medical industry.
