China-Backed Schools Construction Commences in Dominica

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held

The groundbreaking ceremony of the six schools, including the Goodwill Secondary School (GSS), was held on September 8, and was attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Dominica, Lin Xianjiang, the Dominica News Online reported.

Schools to be the “Most Advanced” in the Region

In a speech, Lin has said that the schools currently being constructed with China’s assistance through the China-Aid Project will emerge as the “most advanced educational institutions” in both Dominica and the wider Caribbean region.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Chinese ambassador stressed that, in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Dominican students require new, contemporary schools to guarantee a higher quality of education.

Lin emphasized that these state-of-the-art facilities, built by China’s Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, have been meticulously crafted to provide Dominican children with a modern, cozy, and visually appealing learning atmosphere.

Goodwill Secondary School to be Constructed First

The construction of GSS, constituting around 40% of the overall project, will take precedence and be initiated first.

Total Cost Exceeds $30 Million

The schools have an estimated worth exceeding $30 million in US currency, which is equivalent to over $81 million in Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC).

PM Skerrit Appreciates China’s Support

Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, conveyed his appreciation for what he described as China’s steadfast friendship and generous assistance provided to Dominica over the past 19 years and added that China’s investment in Dominica’s education system is a valuable and substantial gift.

Reconstruction Efforts Continue

The island of Dominica is steadfastly committed to its reconstruction efforts following the devastating impacts of previous typhoons and hurricanes.

Currently, the government is collaborating with various organizations to turn its vision of becoming a globally recognized climate-resilient nation into reality.

International institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are actively contributing financial support for Dominica’s infrastructure projects.

Additionally, the island relies on revenue generated through its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program to fund its ambitious initiatives.

Many of these projects are overseen by MMC Development, Ltd., a Dubai-based development company that has been a longstanding partner of Dominica in the field of infrastructure development.

Conclusion

The construction of China-backed schools in Dominica marks a significant milestone in the country’s reconstruction efforts. The schools are expected to provide a modern and safe learning environment for Dominican students, and will serve as a model for other educational institutions in the region.

FAQs

Q: When did the groundbreaking ceremony take place?
A: The groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 8.

Q: What is the estimated worth of the schools?
A: The estimated worth of the schools exceeds $30 million in US currency, equivalent to over $81 million in Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC).

Q: What is the name of the development company overseeing the project?
A: The project is overseen by MMC Development, Ltd., a Dubai-based development company.

Q: How long has China been providing assistance to Dominica?
A: China has been providing assistance to Dominica for the past 19 years.