Belizean students in Jamaica are demonstrating remarkable resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, a catastrophic Category Five storm that struck the region just a week ago. Despite the devastation, all Belizean students are safe and accounted for, and they have already resumed their studies through online classes. The University of the West Indies (UWI) has extended support, offering counseling services and adopting a hybrid learning model to help students recover while gradually transitioning back to in-person classes.
Bernard Pitts, President of the Belizean Student Association of Jamaica (BELSAJ), highlighted the progress made in distributing relief supplies, including food packages, to students. However, financial strain remains a pressing issue. Many students exceeded their budgets while preparing for the storm, covering costs for transportation, accommodation, and emergency supplies. Pitts emphasized the need for financial assistance to alleviate these burdens.
In a show of solidarity, Belizean students are planning to donate some of their relief supplies to Jamaican communities that were severely impacted by the hurricane. Jamaican Belizean activist Moses Sulph echoed this sentiment, calling on the Belizean public to contribute to relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian support during such crises.
Despite the challenges, the students’ determination to adapt and support others underscores their resilience and community spirit. Shane Williams reports for News Five.