As we prepare to wrap up the online learning experience, we trust that you have optimized the avenues of support provided through your Student Council, Advisors, Lecturers, Heads of Departments, Directors of Studies, Deans, and the ICT Team, to make the experience a productive one. It is also hoped that your access to the Internet would have improved by virtue of the fact that our websites have now been added to Digicel’s zero-rated educational platforms, as communicated in a previous email on May 1.

To assist you in your continued navigation of this “new normal”, we have collated some frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions as you proceed. They are as follows:

 

REFUNDS

Q:       Will EMCVPA refund a percentage of the tuition in light of the suspension of face-to-face classes?

A:       We are aware of a petition that has been signed by over 11,000 tertiary students, including members of our community, as an appeal for institutions to reduce tuition by 15-20% and refund miscellaneous/ late fees. While we have given consideration to this, the reality is that learning has continued in a virtual mode and we have had to commit a lot of funds to facilitate this transition. Consequently, our expenditure has not reduced. In addition to this, the option exists for students who do not believe they are benefitting from the remote engagement to defer their study to a more convenient time. As such, we are not in a financial position to accommodate this request at this time.

Q:       Will refunds be granted to students who were required to evacuate the Halls of Residence due to the COVID-19 situation?

A:       Yes. Please note however that the following conditions apply:

1. Prorated refunds will be provided to students who had to vacate the premises due to the COVID-19 situation.

2. Refunds will take the form of a credit note toward future accommodation or will serve to offset monies owed for tuition or other fees.

3. Refunds will be calculated as at March 31 through to May 31, 2020.
4. Only final year students whose fees are cleared will be eligible for a refund in hand.

5.  Students currently residing on the Hall will be billed for the entire semester.
6.  Students who have vacated the Hall but still have their belongings on campus will be given until the end of May to collect them. Failure to do so will attract charges.

 

REGISTRATION

Q:        Has there been an extension to the registration deadline for Semester 2 of the 2019/202 Academic Year?

A:            Registration for Semester 2 was extended to May 8.

Students on payment plans are being given an extension until July 31 to complete payments.

Q:        When is the deadline for submitting outstanding assignments for the online teaching experience?

A:         All outstanding assignments must be submitted by June 19.

Q:        How will the courses that were not addressed online be treated?

A:         An incomplete will be applied and you will be facilitated to complete as the health conditions permit. Further details on this will follow soon.

 

WELLNESS

Q:        Where can I find support for my mental health during this time?

A:         Counselling services continue to be available through the College’s Guidance Counsellor during this time. To schedule an appointment, you may contact Ms. Hare at sharon.hare@emc.edu.jm.

 

SEMESTER 1 (2020/2021)

Q:        Given the lockdowns, what are the plans for semester 1 of the 2020-2021 Academic Year?

A:         We are currently evaluating the risk factors involved and we are being advised by the local authorities. There are a number of options on the table, which include and range from instruction that is facilitated entirely online to a hybrid scenario to a return to ‘normal’, with the necessary health and safety protocols in place. You will be updated as to which mode will be utilized for our continuance in the new academic year. In so far as this viral pandemic is a volatile situation, we will give a more definitive word as we draw closer to the new semester.

As we continue to navigate this “new normal”, rest assured that ours is a continued resolve to ensure that you are offered the best possible instruction, training, and support towards the completion of your chosen degree programme.

Feel free to reach out to your Registrar, Deans, Directors of Studies, Heads of Departments, Advisors, Student Council representatives, should you require further clarification. Alternatively, you may share your concerns at info@emc.edu.jm.

Thanks again for choosing the EMCVPA! Be well. Stay well.

 

Best regards,
Trudy-Ann Barrett, Ph.D.
Acting Principal