BELMOPAN, Belize, Jan 9, CMC -The Belize government has confirmed that the charter of the American Northwest University School of Medicine, saying it has not been renewed “because the institution did not meet the required terms and conditions for charter renewal”.
In a statement, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST), said it wanted to addresses public concerns regarding the closure of the university, adding that “it is mindful of the concerns expressed by affected students, including approximately 25 Belizean students, regarding the potential disruption to their medical education”.
The government said that it has begun direct engagement with these students to provide guidance and explore available options to ensure continuity of their studies with minimal academic disruption.
“As part of these efforts, MoECST has initiated discussions with the University of Belize (UB), which operates a medical school, to facilitate a seamless transition for affected students who wish to continue their studies.”
The government said it was assuring students and their families that “all reasonable efforts will be made to support continuity of education.
“Where necessary, the Government of Belize is prepared to consider support for certain financial obligations associated with these transition arrangements, subject to established procedures and approvals.
“MoECST remains committed to transparency, adherence to regulatory processes, and the highest standards of quality and integrity in higher education. The Ministry’s priority continues to be the best interests of students, ensuring access to quality medical education, and maintaining the credibility of Belize’s higher education system,” the statement added.
According to its website, American Northwest University, which was originally founded in Bosnia in 2012, established and located in the heart of Belmopan, with an office located in Chicago to conduct all clinical rotations. The idea was to establish a bridge between Central America and Chicago to offer our students and graduates hands on experience to gain wealthy knowledge from the American educational and health system.
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