Blair

The Ministry of Education has advised students to check with its offices to determine if independent institutions are registered before enrolling.

Its latest appeal comes in response to reports last week that students had been fleeced of funds by an unregistered institution.

Students who were registered at the New Kingston-based Global Hospitality and Career Development were surprised last Tuesday when they arrived and found the school gates closed. The operator has reportedly left the island without informing the students or the teachers.

"If you have questions about a school or if you suspect that there is something wrong, do not sign up with that institution, contact the Ministry of Education," Colin Blair, director of communication in the Ministry of Education, told The Gleaner last Friday.

He added: "Check with us before spending your hard-earned cash, especially in this recession."

The communication point man said the ministry had not seen an increase in the number of students complaining about unregistered institutions.

"What we have been noticing is that more and more people are calling in to query about independent institutions before they register," said Blair.

Blair said the school submitted an application to the ministry for registration last October. He said the ministry carried out an assessment and was in the process of issuing a provisional registration.

However, this process was stopped when the ministry received a complaint from a student earlier this month. The student had expressed concerns that there were inadequate tools to carry out practicals.

A student who said she paid $105,000 to obtain training and placement for a job overseas believes her future is uncertain.

Blair said the ministry contacted the school but was told that the proprietor was off the island. Promises were, however, made to purchase additional equipment.

Blair said the Education Act gives the Ministry of Education the power to close unregistered institutions. Operators in breach of the act could also be fined or imprisoned.

petrina.francis@gleanerjm.com

Steps to take to determine if a school is registered with the Ministry of Education