Under the theme “Help is On the Way” USC launched a brand new initiative--The University Learning Center (ULC), on February 17, 2009.  In his opening remarks, Dr. Trevor Gardner, noted that Seventh-day Adventist Education systems work hard to make opportunities possible for the enhancement and advancement of its members, hence the ULC was created to meet the unique needs of the students. Dr. Gardner said that the department is expected to restore self confidence in students who may have been crushed by various situations that label them as “slow learners.”

Ms. Taliba Ayodike, a representative from the Ministry of Education, was also present at the event. She pointed out that the Ministry, in keeping with its goal to promote lifelong learning, is willing to partner with institutions like USC in working towards modernizing the education system in Trinidad and Tobago.

ULC Director, Mrs. Mary Ferdinand, explained that since USC accepted the proposal for the establishment of a Learning Center, she along with her staff has been engaged in a number of preparatory activities: physical preparation of the center, recruitment of experienced and qualified teachers and scheduling of classes and students.  She further explained that the center will focus on assisting students who are on Academic Probation, and those who were accepted with Provisional Academic Requirements.

USC’s learning centre is designed based on the Howard University Model.  Dr. Leslie T Fenwick (Ph.D.), Dean of the School of Education at Howard University, presented the feature address at the launch.  She said that the need for a Learning Center is a need that is applicable to Universities worldwide. She added that the support can be of tremendous value to students, especially those pursuing English as a Second Language.

The University Learning Center (ULC) is an academic support unit that is designed to provide a range of services for students at the USC. Its aim is to assist students in maintaining a successful and continuous matriculation at the University, with graduation as an ultimate goal. The center will offer services aimed at building mathematical, writing, examination preparation, test taking and study skills.