The Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) held a ceremony in recognition of Cuban medical personnel who successfully completed the first phase of an English as a Second Language (ESL) course.

The ESL programme was designed to help the Cuban doctors and nurses communicate with local medical personnel, patients and the community while assisting Saint Lucia in the fight against COVID-19.

Approximately 80 Cubans completed the programme which spanned a period of five weeks. Chairman of the Board of Governors of SALCC, John Calixte, commended the Cuban medical team on completing the course.

“The world should be unified in fighting against this global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. In this regard, we cannot underscore the importance of the Cuban medical brigade in its attempt at international cooperation and solidarity—especially in small island developing states like ours.”

Ambassador of Cuba to Saint Lucia, His Excellency Alejandro Simancas Marin, expressed gratitude to the SALCC for the opportunity given to the medical brigade despite the challenging conditions.

“There were many people with little time available and who needed different attention in varied areas because they had different levels of English, but our friends at the SALCC demonstrated determination and perseverance.”

The Chief Education Officer, Dr. Fiona Mayer stressed the importance of the mutually-beneficial relationship between Saint Lucia and Cuba.

“We embrace the different cultures, what Cuba has to offer and what Saint Lucia has to offer; and so we applaud the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College for giving back to Cuba.

The ESL sessions continue in July 2020 with a second group of new learners as well as continuing participants. The presentation of certificates of completion took place at the Golden Palm Events Center on Saturday, July 4.

Related stories: http://www.govt.lc/news/cuban-medical-brigade-receives-english-certification-from-salcc