That University of St. Martin (USM) is planning a US $8 million expansion (see related story) will no doubt be welcomed in academic circles. After a somewhat difficult beginning the island’s highest institution of learning over the years has cemented its place in society.
This news comes after the recent announcement of a new law course there too. Financing for the latter has already been secured, according to Minister Richard Gibson, so it is not supposed to become an additional burden to the university.
Also in today’s paper is the signing of an agreement in principle between USM’s School of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (SCELL) and St. Maarten Service Training Academy (SSTA) to execute an accredited Customer First Online Training Programme. This is likely to be appreciated by the business community in a tourism destination where quality service is paramount.
Regarding the expansion, the idea is to embark on fundraising activities to make the first phase with a price tag of between US $2 million and $2.5 million possible hopefully still this year. The second phase is estimated at $4 million.
While these intentions are certainly admirable, one can’t help but wonder how realistic it is to expect such considerable amounts from the private sector. After all, the local economy’s performance hasn’t exactly been stellar of late and the low season is far from over.
Nevertheless, those involved deserve credit for taking up the challenge to make the Dutch side’s university what it can and really ought to be. It’s true as well that a modernised, upgraded facility could attract more students, which would, of course, increase revenues to help pay for it.
So, while the initiative should indeed be backed by the entire community, a word of caution is in order. Before starting any construction, make sure the money for at least that part is already in the bank.
