John D students demand certificates

One affected student, Anthony Harris, told Newsday that the course was accredited to a London University, which required students to pay $1,000 to get certification from the university.

He said students from both John D and the San Fernando Technical Institute paid the monies, but on completion of the course, after the six-month waiting period had passed, they were informed of the delay in receiving the certificate. Harris said the college was claiming that they were owed $140,000, and until that money was paid certificates would not be issued. He said he learnt that San Fernando students later received their certificates, but from 2001 to present, the John D students, about 75 persons, have not received their certificates.

Harris said students received a Notification of Performance which indicated their performance in the course.

He said repeated complaints were made to John D about the matter, but John D officials countered every time by stating that they were working on the matter.

When Newsday spoke to an official at the school, he confirmed that the matter was being addressed. The official said there were still outstanding fees from some students, but the Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education was aware of the issue and steps were being taken to rectify the matter. He said the problem is closer to being resolved now than it was two months ago. The spokesperson said he expected the matter to be finalised by early next year. He said affected students were informed of what was happening, and an apology was extended to them.

However, Harris refused to accept that explanation from the school.

"I have been hearing that for too long and we have made lots of sacrifices to now not be able to get our certificates.

"Many students have migrated without the certificate, the lack of which is affecting them in terms of employment or job promotions."