The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) has officially confirmed the termination of American Northwest University School of Medicine’s operational charter, which expired in June 2024 without renewal. This administrative decision effectively forces the closure of the institution, leaving approximately 25 Belizean students in academic limbo after years of financial investment and dedicated study.
Affected students express profound frustration over the abrupt disruption to their medical education, with many describing complete financial backing from families covering both tuition and living expenses throughout their enrollment. The lack of transparent communication regarding the institution’s status and accountability mechanisms has compounded their distress, with one student noting: ‘I’m being instructed to completely restart my education without a coherent explanation of what transpired or who bears responsibility.’
Education Minister Francis Fonseca clarified that the charter non-renewal followed extended consultations with the university administration, stating: ‘The institution’s charter lapsed in June 2024 and has remained unrenewed since that time.’ The Ministry is currently facilitating transition discussions with the recently established University of Belize medical school to potentially absorb displaced students.
In contrast, ANU leadership has vigorously defended its operational legitimacy through group communications, asserting possession of documentation demonstrating legal compliance and ongoing dialogue with educational authorities. The institution has cautioned against allegations of unlawful operation, emphasizing that unsubstantiated claims could constitute defamation under applicable laws.