The MOU between the HLSCC and Richmond University London will allow HLSCC graduates the opportuunity to enter year 3 of a bachelor's degree programme. Photo: X

The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Richmond American University London. Photo: Internet Source

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Shari B. de Castro called the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and Richmond American University London a major milestone. Photo: YouTube

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed during the recent visit to London by the Honourable Sharie B. de Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, and Dr Richard W.E. Georges, President of HLSCC, for the Education World Forum (EWF) in London, held from May 18 to 21, 2025.

This agreement allows HLSCC graduates with degrees accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) to enter directly into the third year of a Bachelor’s programme at Richmond. 

Hon de Castro called this a “major milestone” during the Fifth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA) on June 3, 2025. 

Faster & affordable path

“The fact that Richmond is also accredited by MSCHE ensures strong academic alignment and facilitates seamless credit transfer. This development means a faster, more affordable, and academically efficient path to completing a full degree for our students,” Hon de Castro said. 

Before this agreement, HLSCC graduates with an associate degree would have had to enter year 1 at a United Kingdom (UK) university, which led to them repeating academic content already mastered. 

“In some cases, they were even required to complete a foundation year before beginning their bachelor’s studies, despite already holding post-secondary qualifications. This not only added time and cost but also delayed the student’s entry into the workforce.”

Discussions held with other universities

Hon de Castro and Dr Georges also met with the University of Westminster, London Metropolitan University, Barnet & Southgate College and Morley College. 

She revealed that the Ministry of Education is “exploring the feasibility of London Met becoming a preferred scholarship institution and possibly developing a 2+2 transfer model, particularly given their past association with MSCHE”.

Minister de Castro added that the new UK-based education pathways are the product of long-term policy planning. 

“The Ministry will continue to support HLSCC’s efforts to develop and solidify international partnerships that open doors to higher education for BVIslanders. In doing so, we are creating new opportunities for our youth, new pathways for adult learners, and ultimately, a stronger and more resilient Virgin Islands.”