The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Staff Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

COB students are calling for greater transparency in the graduation process as more than 200 Fall 2013 students still await completion letters from the institution.

Student union president Alphonso Major Jr yesterday confirmed that more than 60 students have come forward with concerns over the delay, which he added was a long-standing issue for the college.

Mr Major Jr said: “The graduating process at the College of the Bahamas is one that I’ve been fighting for since my entrance into COBUS from Summer 2011. Currently, from the Academic Board level at the College, where constitutionally my executive vice-president sits, the applicants have yet to reach that second phase of processing.”

He said: “The Academic Board has yet to table the document. I don’t know what the issues are in regards to why it has yet to be tabled. I haven’t gotten any response on the matter. Up to this point, I’ve received 72 messages. It would at least alleviate some concerns for those that are seeking job opportunities or want to further their education.”

Several graduate students contacted The Tribune earlier this month; however, the tertiary institution has not responded to inquiries to date.

Ivanna Gaitor, an AA Fine Arts major who participated in the Fall 2013 commencement exercise, said: “Personally, the delay in receiving my degree slightly alters my smooth transition as I’m pursuing another degree at another institution, and seeking to get my credits transfered.”

Ms Gaitor, former COBUS senator for the School of Communication and Creative Arts, said: “The real issue comes about with not even having access to a letter of completion. This faulty process has also become an issue with applying for jobs.

“I feel for education and nursing students because they more so are held back from being employed in their field.”