In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, many students across Jamaica have been significantly affected by the storm’s impact. The disruption caused by power outages, internet instability, flooding, property damage, and emotional distress has made it extremely difficult for students to meet academic obligations.

Many students have lost access to learning materials, electronic devices, and reliable communication, making it nearly impossible to adequately prepare for upcoming end-of-semester assessments (EOSA) or complete assignments. 

Despite this, UCC continues to plan final examinations as if nothing happened.  

That’s unfair. Students across the island are still rebuilding — some studying by candlelight, others displaced entirely.   

We, the students of UCC, call on the University to *treat mid-semester examination grades as the final assessments* for this term.   

This is not a request for leniency. It’s a *demand for fairness.*   

The mid-semester exams already tested all major learning outcomes.  
Holding more exams while many are still in crisis undermines academic equity and mental well-being.   

This consideration would:

• Ensure fairness to students who have been severely affected by the hurricane and are unable to perform at their best due to circumstances beyond their control.
• Reduce stress and anxiety during this challenging recovery period.
• Maintain academic integrity and compassion, in line with the university’s student-centered philosophy.
• Promote equity, recognizing that not all students have the same access to stable learning conditions post-disaster.

Other universities, including *UWI Mona*, have already adjusted their grading to support affected students.  

UCC should do the same — by recognizing mid-semester grades as final. 

We understand that academic standards must be maintained; however, we also believe that compassion and fairness should guide the university’s decision during this unprecedented situation.

We humbly urge the administration to review this petition urgently and take into account the well-being and challenges of the student body.

Let’s stand together and make our voices heard. 

Sincerely,
Concerned Students of the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean