(Stock Photo)
Barbadians studying in Cuba in the zone likely to be affected by Hurricane Matthew are receiving regular updates and are following the directives of Cuba’s Civil Defense to assure their safety.
Word of this came today from Chargé d’Affaires at Barbados’ Embassy in Cuba, Donna Forde.
Ms. Forde said that eight of the 17 Barbadian students are currently studying in the eastern provinces of Guantanamo, Santiago de Cuba and Las Tunas. She noted that three students, who resided off campus, were ordered back to their universities and had complied with the order.
“As can be expected, the students are anxious and a little frightened. They have never experienced a hurricane before. I have been trying to remind them of the efficiency and professionalism of Cuba’s Civil Defense and Emergency Management system. But I have also advised them to pool their resources to secure enough personal drinking water, food items, buckets, and, of course their passports, medication and valuables,” she stated.
The Chargé d’Affaires noted that should the situation reach a point where the students have to vacate the area, appropriate permissions will be sought and coordinated with Barbados’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cuban authorities, once evacuation was possible at that time.
“I will continue to update the Ministry and do all that I can to comfort and calm the students. I have told them that if the time comes for an evacuation we will take all necessary measures to assure their safety,” Ms. Forde emphasised.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade