Dominica PM discusses impact of Ross University leaving country

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has suggested there may already be opportunities engaged to match the contributions Ross University made to the island's economy.

On 3 August, Skerrit announced the departure of the school from Dominica after 40 years.

Soon after the announcement, Ross University owner Adtalem Global Education Inc released a statement noting its decision to move its operations to Barbados.

The prime minister noted in his announcement that the decision to leave Dominica was directly attributed to by the impact of the passage of Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Skerrit hinted that the government has already begun to engage other opportunities to lessen the impact the university’s move will have on the economy.

“I am satisfied that the government has already engaged in other opportunities that could in the end, the medium to long-term, almost match the contribution that Ross made to the economy of Dominica over the last 40 years,” he said.

“We have some ideas for the north and at the appropriate time we will share those ideas with our stakeholders, but I am concerned, but I have great hope for future prospects,” the prime minister stated.

Skerrit told those who were directly affected that the university’s departure is not the end of the world.

“There will be other opportunities and we will meet with you very soon,” he promised.

Skerrit wished Ross University continued success and said that his government is looking forward to continue working with them on a number of fronts.