Senior judge questions traditional higher education for aspiring leaders

Justice Andre said technology has changed the traditional form of education
Justice Andre said technology has changed the traditional form of education

Senior Judge of the Superior Court of Justice in Canada, Justice Dr. Irving Andre is of the opinion that a traditional higher level of education is not necessary for those aspiring for leadership positions.

However, he was quick to point out that, “it would be wrong to suggest that a university education is not worth pursuing.”

Andre made the remarks at the third annual E.O. Leblanc Annual Lecture at the Fort Young Hotel on Tuesday evening.

According to him, the late Leblanc was denied an opportunity for higher education because he had not benefitted from a secondary education.

“Today, more than 60 years later, similar barriers are being erected to disqualify certain individuals from aspiring to leadership positions in Dominica,” he said.

Andre is of the view that traditional higher education is necessary for aspiring leaders is a “misguided perception.”

“We live in an age of virtual education,” he argued. “We live in an age where never in the annals of the world history has any information been more readily available than it is today. We live in an age when a university drop out is the richest man in the world. We live in an age when an enterprising man from Louisiana successfully studied to take the state bar examinations on the internet, and became a practicing lawyer despite never having set foot in a law school.”

He continued, “The point is this. The technology and information revolution today has significantly diminished the necessity of attaining higher education in the form that we traditionally know it.”

He did say, however, a university education is worth pursuing and should be encouraged.

“On the contrary, our children should pursue it with all their strength and energy, but human intelligence has long existed and will continue to exist outside the perimeter of a university or college,” he said.

He said Leblanc never wore a tie nor did he earn a university degree.

“However that did not handicap him in any way since the degree that mattered for effective and transformational leadership was the degree of his commitment to create a society based on meritocracy, the extraordinary degree to which he was an honest custodian of the state’s resources and the degree to which he provided opportunities for Dominicans to become productive citizens,” he said.

The senior judge also pointed out that the life and legacy of Leblanc should not be treated as if it was a prized piece of China or silverware to be taken out of the cabinet and dusted for display purposes, only to be out back out of sight and out of mind until the following National Day.

“The life and values of this man should renew and reinforce the values of every patriot, giving them conviction and courage that honesty and integrity in governance is the legal tender that will ensure the productivity and prosperity of our island nation,” he noted.

The topic of the lecture was, “E. O. Leblanc: A Rendezvous with History.”

It was done in collaboration with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Open Campus Dominica and the Cultural Division.

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88 Comments

  1. Freethinker
    November 2, 2014

    I’m sorry, but this is rubbish. I am a teaching assistant at a university in the United States, and the students I teach–freshmen to senior–are generally imbeciles, despite having gotten into a fairly good university. These are kids from the Internet generation, all of whom are Internet-savvy. But do they care to use the Internet as a tool for “virtual education?” They sometimes claim they do, but this is false in most cases, since they instead waste time and, even when doing research, often merely skim for quick information and factoids rather than reading deeply.

    This is a generation that needs to be re-taught the value of reading and education, not told that they don’t need to aspire towards it. If you can get that education on your own or online, fine. But I seriously doubt most millennials will honestly use the Internet for such self-enriching purposes. As a near-millennial myself in age, I understand their pressures to some degree, yet I make sure I read every day and keep up with the news as best as I can. The Internet can be a powerful tool but too many people misuse it and make themselves less educated, more superficially educated, in the process, rather than reading and learning deeply.

  2. deal
    November 2, 2014

    To hold high position you need a degree don’t let Andre fool you. The position I have with NYC someone needs a bachelor degree but being I’m there for over twenty years with experience I have the title. So eduaction is a must. To bady sit now you are asked for education background we are in the twentieth century.

  3. November 1, 2014

    The more I read the comments of some of the contributors to the DNO articles the more i’m convinced that most of our people speak ENGLISH but alas so few understand it. What did the good Dr; say which offended some of you so much? He is not alone in his views on Traditional Education for Aspiring Leaders. Let me take time off to present the views of another Dr; maybe our so called Intellectual paros will be a bit more enlightened. This article is condensed from the Jamaican Gleaner and was printed in the PULSE newspaper on April 30th 2014; captioned-: Political Leaders Need No Degree; by -Dr Christopher Charles-: Political Psychologist and lecturer in Government at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona; Dr Christopher Charles, has declared that contrary to popular belief, a political leader does not need a tertiary degree to move to the top of the political ladder. Charles who was speaking against the background of a study he was undertaking, stressed that it takes TALLENT and SKILL to be successful in politics. (The study will be looking at the successes and failures of all the prime ministers between 1962 and 2011). “A degree is a good arsenal to have, but a political leader won’t fail if he doesn’t have it” he declared. “There have been varying opinions and criticisms as it relates to academic qualifications and leadership, but if we look at all political systems, especially the Westminster system, the rise to the top in any political party, where delegates within the party respect you, takes a lot of skill and intelligence.” Charles told the Gleaner. He added; “The average citizen would prefer a lawyer, a doctor or someone with some sort of sound tertiary background to become a prime minister or president of a country. Among the tenets, however, for any leader are one who is able to INFLUENCE, COMMAND, RESPECT and MOTIVATE the populace; and one who is INTELLIGENT,” he said. Making reference to Ronald Reagan and Sir John Major, who both did not have tertiary qualifications while they served as President (USA) and Prime Minister (UK) respectively, he said TEAMWORK instead should be the focus of any kind of leadership. “These people were leaders who served their country and it was not destroy. The prime minister will not do everything, which is why it is imperative that he or she pull together the BEST TEAM within the party to manage the affairs of the country,” he said. Attorney-at-law Clyde Williams shared similar views. He, however, stressed that a higher level of PROFESSIONALISM and STANDARDS should be maintained. “I’m not hung up on tertiary degrees because qualifications should not be limited to academia. I’m not saying it’s not a good tool to have, however, I prefer OUTPUT,” the attorney-at-law told the Gleaner. “I believe however, that political leaders of the 21st century should bring to the table Value-Added Competence; the ability to make Sound Judgements; qualifications, whether, it be Technical , Administrative, or otherwise; and he or she should have a high level of Awareness about the Politics of their Government,” he declared. (Jamaica Gleaner)

  4. integrityyesdegreeno
    November 1, 2014

    I would rather a leader with integrity and no degree than a leader with a PHd who is a big white color tieeefffff.

  5. Anonymous
    November 1, 2014

    At the end of the day Mr. Andre is subtly trying to endorse Mr. Linton as political leader of uwp and prime minister of Dominica but the bottom line is that he is very much outmatched by the Honourable Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerritt who has time and time again proven that he is a much better leader and candidate to lead our beautiful nature isle. Sorry Mr. Andre but Linton is no competition for Mr. Skerritt.

  6. Francisco Telemaque
    November 1, 2014

    “In time you will see Dominica do fine in the international market and it will not be because of university educated leaders.(Donald Hill).

    Hill, I think you are getting into something that you do not comprehend, or know anything about! Those who feels it knows exactly how it feels okay!

    You claim to be a white Canadian, true or false, I do not know, and could care less about the color of your skin, a pigmentation which is only skin deep, and that pigmentation is due to the fact that the contents of melanin in your skin is less than mine. This is not what the topic is about but here is a brief: Melanin is a dark sulfur-containing pigment normally found in the hair, skin, (epidermis), ciliary body, choroid of the eye, pigment layer of the retina, and certain nerve cells.

    It occurs abnormally in certain tumors, known as melanomas, and is sometimes excreted in the urine; when such tumors are present. Make no mistake about it I am not discriminating against you, I simply want you to know the only reason for your complexion and the difference of a ” Black person is that the content of melanin in a black person is greater than a white person, hence none of us is better than the other, nor do a white parson know better than a black person okay. Sentiments such as yours is not actually in the interest of the people of Dominica, and Dominica. There you are in Canada sitting in your comfort zone, I suppose retired, living on your pension, or investments as I am living of my investments, while more than 90% of the population of Dominica exist and live below the poverty line.

    When you make the as in the quote above, I consider that to be rubbish! That is a blind man’s ream. We know that under normal circumstance it should take a nation at least twenty-five years to build itself, and we prove that after World War II when the United Stats, and Britain, and the Russians demolished Germany, yes I know that Germany was eventually by the United States to rebuild but that is not an excuse for Dominica. Dominica ha been as it is for hundreds of years, dominated by the Spanish, French at one time or the other, and in recent years The British, until they forced us into Independence. It has been more than thirty years since we are masters of our own destiny. What have we done?

    Where are our industries, where are our commodities to be exported and sold on the international market which you assured that idiot that Dominica will do well? How are you Hill going to get Dominica into an international Market when we have nothing to sell in an International Market, and even if we had something to sell, without an academic education, to be used in the setting up of marketing, and marketing strategy, nothing will happen. Stop talking crap to appease that idiot who calls herself the facts! In my life I worked as a pharmaceutical sales man, a tariff clerk both of which requires good mathematical skills, I drove Tank-wagon for Shell oil, I worked for the West Indies oil company in the marketing department, defunct I struggled in a way until I educated myself academically. So for you to sit there and talk such nonsense is beyond me, finally, let us focus on tourism, how will Dominica do well in the tourist industry when Dominica lack an International Airport?

    it is okay for us all to voice our opinions but we have to very careful with the comments we make, especially if it is going to cause harm to the mind of the more fragile and that is what you have done in this case. Hill I refer you to Montserrat where a volcano whipped out half of the island, there are about seven thousand inhabitance on the island, they have already rebuilt a city called Brades in less than twenty years, and you are talk crap about in time Dominica will do well in international market, what are you talking about man?

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • November 13, 2014

      Francisco:

      When I said I was a “white Canadian” I was simply trying to identify myself to what I expect is a predominately black reading audience. It was not intended to imply that I am more intelligent and knowledgeable than the black folks because I am white. You took my statement completely out of context. Perhaps I did a poor job of expressing myself and I feel terrible to think I came across that way to even one person.

      I was writing in the future tense. What I said about Dominica and international trade is what I expect in the years to come and for the reasons I stated. An educated man would never verbally attack another person like you did for having a different outlook than himself. It is O.K to express an opposite opinion. But it should never become personal.

      You launched into a scientific lecture on what causes the difference in skin color and rambled on at some length. This was not the subject of the original news article nor any of the comments. It is the original news article and the theme of the original article we are suppose to be addressing in our comments. It is highly inappropriate to attack another commentator in such a personal manner.

      It is appalling to have you casting doubt on my identity and saying how you imagine me sitting at home in my comfort zone living off my pensions. I am not at all famous nor do I wish to be. But I am fairly well known across Canada as an evangelist and Bible teacher with my own ministry – Living Hope Ministries – and a website – I once had my own weekly radio show and have preached on television. I have lectured in Bible Colleges in both Canada and the U.S.A. I’ve had four books published. One of them was translated and published in the Russian language and smuggle into Russia as part of a much larger operation before the fall of communism in Russia. It was used a text for training pastors in the underground church.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • November 13, 2014

      Francisco:

      Evidently your comments attacking me were not well received.

      Have you compared our ratings?

      Sincerely, Rev. Don Hill

  7. lovely dominica
    November 1, 2014

    That was a speech in support of Lennox Linton. The truth is the truth. In Leblancs days how many people were able to attend Universities, colleges and so on. Were computers in existence? The world over , to get the simplest of job one managing a country and its ok not even to have a degree in management. Ok if we say that one is not academically qualified, what about experience? Can someone point me to a CV of Lennox Linton. I wonder what Mr. Andres children would say if they are told that they should not seek to academically educate themselves.

  8. The Prophet
    November 1, 2014

    Nothing wrong with education brother but education alone is nothing if you don’t use it wisely. Education is no substitute for wisdom.
    You don’t know the song by Damian Marley “Educated Fools” that goes in the refrain “educated fools have ruined di world”? Listen to it carefully and you may learn something.
    According to the urban dictionary and educated fool is a person that is filled with book knowledge but is lacking in common sense. Do you know someone like that? I bet you do. Peace be upon you.

  9. Titiwi
    November 1, 2014

    Hmm, does that explain why “Dr”. Philbert Aaron is a follower and not a leader?

  10. Lori Kovac
    November 1, 2014

    Dominica might well hope for another E.O. Leblanc one day. Such patriotic integrity as his has rarely been seen on the world stage. He had a great love for his country and an unshakable commitment to the common people.

    I pray that Dominica may some day prove worthy of such love and devotion.

  11. Rabbit
    October 31, 2014

    Well guess what.One who is trained as a special operator e.g. a navy seal,special forces or ranger has more discipline,drive,intestinal fortitude,motivation & dedication even with a high school diploma than any one of you so called educated people. How about that. That’s neither Skerrit nor Linton…MOOT!!!!

  12. October 31, 2014

    Andra

    that nonsense you said should be put in the gabage. why did you go to school to be a judge? should all schools be closed since you think that education isnt important? it was people like you who encouraged slavery, and porlonged it for all these centuries. you should be very ashamed of yourself for letting our kids think they need no education to be successful. thats why we blacks will never get the respect we are working hard for. shame on you, shame on you, shame on you

  13. Bagaila Bande
    October 31, 2014

    Take note that the man making the argument is a Doctor eh! He has spent years at school educating himself! Now he comes as a wolf in sheep’s clothing telling people education is not important! Folks examine their horns!

    • shaka zulu
      November 1, 2014

      Comprehension is really a problem for you. The speach above never said education is not important. He clarified that fact to make sure people don’t get that message. The point is you do not have to go to traditional university to get an education in today’s age. Look, Bill gates, Mark Zuckaburg, and Sir Richard Brandon all dropped out of college. If you never heard about these guys then go find out what they do.
      A sound education is important. However intelligence is a gift.

    • Nurse
      November 1, 2014

      Where a degree is a requirement for leadership positions in the public service the Public Service Commission is busy appointing people with no degrees. I wonder if Justice Andre is responsible.

    • Anonymous
      November 2, 2014

      You are right all of them are fake never judge a book by looking at its cover. Time will tell for all of them. God knows what is best for Dominica not Andre.

  14. Anonymous
    October 31, 2014

    Andre how did you get where you are now because of your education. Thank you. Everybody is not the same check your five fingers on your hand. LeBlanc and Skerritt are two different people.

  15. Africo
    October 31, 2014

    Le Blanc, VC Bird, Ebenezer Joshua, Bradshaw and all of the other classic early Caribbean leaders could get away without higher education because those were different times.

    The demands of today as an independent small island state in a globalized world is a much greater challenge and requires more than just small island leadership of internal social and political concerns.

    A firm educational background is a prerequisite in dealing with international matters on an equal level with world leaders.

    • Malgraysa
      October 31, 2014

      Democracy is more than 2,000 yrs. old. Are you saying that over the last 50 years things have changed so drastically that the basic principles of democray no longer apply? Your line of thinking would take us back to the time when people did not enjoy universal voting rights but would, be restricted to those of superior academic learning, just as in the not so distant past it was restricted to landowners, according to the value of their holdings. Neither you or I may be enamoured by the people’s choice all the time but that is democray my friend.

      • Stamos
        November 2, 2014

        Most ignorant statement of the centure. DEMOCRACY IS OVER 2000 YEARS OLD????????????????????// lol. you must be smoking some real messed up s4it.

    • John Paul
      November 2, 2014

      What Education Skeritt have?

  16. `
    October 31, 2014

    The leadership of uwp have done nothing to convince me that lack of proper education is not necessary for good leadership at such a level. Poor decisions after poor decisions are made. Why would anyone endorse a person like Mr Fontaine as a future Minister of finance in their cabinet given his past record. And it’s a shame Mr. Andre, that people like you is supporting that given your level of education. It is no wonder why you would hold such a view.

  17. Massacre
    October 31, 2014

    Andre is correct.
    A famous politician once said that if he had to do it again he would appoint all none PHD’s to his cabinet. Because most of his ministers were doctors and lawyers but still many of the country’s problems continue.
    He came to the opinion that if they were so educated, why didn’t they have basic solutions for his country’s failures.
    That does not mean we should not learn to read and write.
    It’s just that “educated people” always go to the book for simple issues.
    Just look at all the local entrepreneurs we had Dominica in the 1980’s& 90’s, not many of them had a high school education and yet they ran a successful business for many years until they send their kids to school overseas, those kids returned, took over the business but the business went into bankruptcy for one reason or the other.
    Education does not always prepare a person for the uncertainties.

  18. Views Expressed
    October 31, 2014

    Francisco…….I concur with what you say…….but you may have misunderstood what Dr. Andre says. There are people who acquire these qualities without a university presence but as Dr Andre alluded have done it through e education and have developed the requisite competencies:- well read, experiences qualifying them to hold high office. Lennox Linton as far as I am concerned is extremely over qualified with all the relevant competencies to hold the highest office in Dominica. I cannot say so of Dominica`s Prime Ministers and most of his ministers and advisors.

    • lovely dominica
      November 1, 2014

      poor u

    • Francisco Telemaque
      November 1, 2014

      I understand Andre fully well; And I must agree that higher education dose not guaranty anybody a bed of roses. I am aware that people such as Bill Gates is an university drop out, and Charles Bronson did not finish elementary. We know that in life what is in someone destiny will prevail, one way or the other educated; or not they will be successful.

      I must remind you that when Gates dropped out of university, he did that because he knew he had something in his brain, learnt from educational institutions that he could use to enhance his life; through Microsoft he accomplished that, how many more people are in existent like Bronson, and Gates, not many!

      My contention is simply this, one have to be prepared educationally in life so that when the opportunity which requires high learning presents itself, one who have the proper education will be able to walk through that door, and take hold of the opportunity. If all they wish to do with their education is go knocking on doors looking for a job then perhaps such people had better flush the money they paid for their education down the toilet! Academically educated means the educated person can channel their education by creating, and developing their very own business.

      We are in the twenty-fist century, when I first came to the United States, I would here people boast “well I am on my job for forty years.” We do not hear that anymore, technology has taken over. I feel sorry for those with a mediocre education.

      I believe Andre should emphasize higher education, because without his high education he would not have made it into his position.

      When a lawyer stands in his court to defend, and represent someone, if that lawyer errors, he will lose the case and can get sued for malpractice depending. If Andre error and give wrong instructions to a jury, and they return a verdict of not guilty, that could cause a murderer to go free for life. Cant be tried again since that would constitute double jeopardy. He has to be able to interpret the law to the letter in order to avoid any error; it takes a very brilliant mind to be in control of the proceedings his court at all times. He has to know the law better than any lawyer arguing a case in his Court.

      His judgments and decisions rendered has to be based on the law, and his interpretation of the law which better be correct. Without his academia, he could not fill that position. And mind you my comments has nothing to do with the politics in Dominica right now if you know what I mean!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

  19. Anonymous
    October 31, 2014

    I do not understand why some of those “intelectuals” beleive that they can manufacture truth and facts. Every event must be evaluated in context. The fact is that in the Time of E. O. Le Blanc, only a tiny fraction of Dominica’s polulation were able to attend high school, lest even university. So I do not get Andre’s point! We are in a different era, with different skill-needs (educational, technical, etc).

  20. October 30, 2014

    Mr . Lennox Linton is a genius. He is more educated , intelligent and well read than some who has attended university and has obtain a degree . Even with their boxes of degrees they are no match for Mr. Linton . there are Fools with degrees with no common sense.

    • Shame
      November 1, 2014

      There are fool with degrees, like the author or the UWP manifesto. Can you walk into any center of higher learning and demand or apply for a job? Yes, they will take a look at his resume. Tell Mr. Linton to do the same! He will be arrested for being a nuance. In today’s world in order to hold a job; minimum wage you MUST complete high school. Applications normally ask Level of Education? It is surprising and belittling to see a man with you high education will come here and for political advantage tell our young people you don’t need an education Shame on YOU sir

  21. The Facts
    October 30, 2014

    What Andre stated makes sense. However, God gave humanity a certain degree of intelligence. In those days down through the ages prior to schools, colleges and universities, they built an empire. Today, if they applied their intelligence properly, they could excel much higher than those who are so-called educated.
    In this era, in order to efficiently build a country, its buildings and other projects which are necessary for every day living, a higher education may be needed. However, we must not lose sight of those who have long gone before us who never had an education and who fulfilled their duties successfully.
    We could cite many instances that those who built a country, buildings, roads, etc., did not have a higher education. Look at what they built which are still standing. They did a better job than those of today who have a higher education and take courses. I could cite many instances as I view them. You too could do likewise.

    • October 31, 2014

      The Facts:

      Well said and thank you!

      Observation is our best teacher.

      Those who forget their history are prone to repeat its mistakes.

      Those who don’t read the present are poorly prepared for the future.

      In almost every field of endeavor you can find people who have risen to the top and become leaders who had little formal education. They had integrity, a sense of fairness, ambition, and vision.

      Many will agree that political candidates should be allowed to post their qualifications. Let them tell us why they think they should have the job. Then let the voters decide.

      This sure beats blocking a potentially great leader from entering the race because he or she does not have an university degree, or has perhaps received his or her education outside a regular institute of learning.

      Have you noticed that some political leaders with degrees have degrees that have nothing to do with politics?

      Some worked at lower level politics for years learning the political ropes before entering the national stage. Who is to say that in practical terms this does not equal a degree in political science?

      In this day and age we need to at least understand that there are different ways to obtain an education.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • Francisco Telemaque
      November 1, 2014

      You are such an idiot, fake The Facts; you support everything which is detrimental! If you are about to loose your life supporting something wrong something evil you prefer to die than face”the facts.”

      Look I know Andre personally, I remember his father who was involved in Public Works on the North of Dominica, he oversaw all of Public works road construction, he was the big-shot during the colonial days. He educated all of his children, I remember Andre living at the Conner of Kings Lane, next to old Dr. McIntyre office, McIntyre was Dominica’s only eye specialists:

      Back to Andre without his sound education, do you believe he would be in a position to be part of the Judiciary in Canada?

      Absolutely not!

      The man is a Judge in the Court House in Brampton, I been there looking for him when I was visiting with a certain person who work in the Court House, (I doh calling anybody name eh cause I doh want to get into trouble); I did not see him because that Thursday he was out of his office, I just wanted to meet him; to see if he remembered me. I know he will read this, if you have difficulties remember me Andre, I am sure if I mention the name Almoore Robin, who used to live at 22 Kinds Lane, in Roseau about sixty yards from your parents house on the corner, unless you have amnesia, you will remember Almoore, and I suppose Patrick Bourgeois, Earl Toussiant, and Poopond, Patrick Titie and the late Ashley Royer, at least you may remember CB Record Store, but most definitely, if you do not remember Frank Baron house on the corner, then you may have selective amnesia. I believe you and my brother were friendly to each other, so Andre if you haven’t heard it yet, a few years ago Almoore was a member of the Royal Antigua Police Force, holding the rank of Police Inspector, he was murdered, gunned down while talking to his friend in a candy shop, when four kids went to robbed the candy shop: one of the kids involved in his murder is born to a Dominica mother, my brother raised the boy as his pwn son: no relation to him!

      I do not know what sort of cases Andre deals with, be it family law, criminal, or civil law cases. Law is not the easiest of any profession. He has to be a very educated man to have become a Judge in Canada. In Dominica anybody can be a civil servant today, and tomorrow be on a bench calling themselves magistrate without going to law school; in the developed world one have to become a lawyer before they can become a judge or a magistrate, plenty of education is involved. As I stated in my first submission, I know the purpose of his opinion. I know why he wrote that article, I will not burst it wide open, (because I can’t, due to obvious reasons); but I must say I am surprised that someone academically educated as Andre would go to the extreme to emphasize that “traditional higher level of education is not necessary for those aspiring for leadership positions.” Love; and loyalty, has their limits also Andre!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

  22. Jay
    October 30, 2014

    Our constitution, in its wisdom regonises Dr. Andre’s assertion.
    It says, with regard to the required (educational) qualifications to be eligible as a Representative of the House, that the candidate:*
    “is able to speak and, unless incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause, to read the English language with a degree of proficiency sufficient to enable him to take an active part in the proceedings of the House”.

    Yesterday, 29 Oct. The President of Zambia, Michael Sata, known by friends and foes alike as “King Cobra”, passed away in a London clinic at the age of 77. He was by no means a man of elevated formal education and in his earlier years as an immigrant in the U.K. earned a living sweeping railway platforms and being a porter of other people’s luggage. Yet, he managed to climb to the pinnacle in his country of birth – incidentally on a vow to wrest control of his country back from the Chinese! His Vice President is a Zambian born, Cambridge educated white man, Guy Scott who is now the interim President of Zambia till formal elections can be held in about 90 days time.
    You see, one does not preclude the other and our constitution is precisely crafted in the way it is lest we omit, or overlook talent for leadership that first and foremost has to come from the people and is not prescribed by formal education only.

    *Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, chapter III, part I (31-3).

  23. .
    October 30, 2014

    No wonder Dominica will not be able to compete on the international market.

    • October 31, 2014

      In time you will see Dominica do just fine in the international market and it will not because of its university educated leaders.

      However Dominicans with degrees working at their own jobs in Dominica will contribute greatly to the wellbeing and advancement of the nation. Also it will happen because of the creativity and dedication of those who operate farms, factories, and various industries on the island especially those who have a vision for manufacturing, exporting, importing, and selling

      Common people who believe in giving an honest days work for a fair days wages will build he nation.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • Titiwi
      November 1, 2014

      As so amply demonstrated by the last 10 year rule of a leader with alleged two university degrees.

  24. .
    October 30, 2014

    It’s a conspiracy! Remember for every action there’s an equal an opposite reaction. So I learned at school or maybe school was wrong since we do not really need it these days.

  25. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    This might be actually making sense because I have been asking myself lately what is wrong with our so called educated Dominicans. They have not been making a lot of sense lately. Irving, I remember you being called lapin at school, you sound like a real koper lapin now.

  26. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    With this in mind I think we should stop spending so much money trying to educate our young people or is this talk just to justify an uneducated aspiring leader?

    • November 1, 2014

      You have only read part of what Dr. Andre said.

      He has implied that a higher education IS worth pursuing.

      His bottom line is that individuals without a formal university education may qualify in other ways for leadership positions. History shows he is right.

      Abraham Lincoln had less than one year of formal education in a school. One of my sources says he had eleven days of school. He studied law books at night by the flickering light of a lamp in a cabin after working all day at menial jobs. One quote has him saying “I will prepare myself and then my opportunity will come.” Eventually he was called to the bar and later became the president of the USA! Needless to say America has had presidents with degrees who did not contribute as much as Mr. Lincoln!

      Some men have prepared themselves so well they have been thought to be university graduates. Nobody would have known the difference had they not told them. In the past we have evaluated a man by his character, ability and accomplishments. Perhaps it is time to look at the increasing emphasis on formal education and ask ourselves where are going with this.

      We have universities that are facing problems. There are dwindling enrollments due to increased costs and fees that are beyond the reach of many. Students do not want to graduate with student loans that will take 20 years to pay off
      while they struggle to serve an internship and establish some kind of practice. This is no time to put down alternative forms of education. Instead we should be exploring their possibilities.

      In this day and age there are more ways than ever to get an education or should I simply say become knowledgeable. Some are avid readers. Correspondence (home study courses) have helped many find a second career. Now we have the internet offering courses and even degree studies from accredited universities. Not everybody has the self discipline to learn this way but obviously some do. And have we forgotten the value of life experience and “hands on” training in the “school of hard knocks”?

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, D.D., International Evangelist.

  27. Just Observing
    October 30, 2014

    If Dr. Andre knew of the mepuis that is meted out to ordinary Dominicans (supporters of Labour) by the very same people who werecheering him on that point. If Only Dr. Andre knew that the issue of a higher education for aspiring leaders was not raised by the Labour Party but by the very same perosn who today we all know do not have a higher education and is apsiringto be chief executive of the land. if only Dr. Andre knew that thepeson who was chastised for not having a “traditional” higher for leadership in this country had more qual;ifications than the person who raised the issue. If only Dr. Andre knew that the person who is being criticized today for not having a “traditional” higher education ha sshown absolutely no interest in pursuing a higher education, even virtually is possible today.If only Dr. Andre knew that every child in the household where the NO GCE man was raised all have university degrees. If only Dr. Andre’ knew those facts, perhaps, maybe perhaps he would have stated his case differently. I note to that Dr. Andre stayed well away from identifying Le Blanc’s abhorrence of people who use other people’s organizations to garner wealth unto themselves. In order words, Dr. Andre said absolutely nothing about how Le Blanc would have dealt with the Clayton Shillingford’s and Thompson Fintaine’s of this world when it comes to dealing with the resources of eminent NGOs such as the DASS. It is possible that Dr. Andre is a member of the DAAS. How would Le Blance deal with “landsgate” and “transfergate”.

  28. brutus
    October 30, 2014

    can you be a judge without higher levels of education, you know that yesterday and today can never be the same, come better than that.

  29. Gary
    October 30, 2014

    Your opening statement is so absurd and shows how brainwashed you are. Your type of thinking is based on tunnel vision and not understanding the true meaning of “Education” To suggest that Justice Andre comments allows non achievers to believe that they could govern without the necessary preparation and discipline is somewhat misleading on your part. Is it your belief that someone needs to attend an academic institution for four years to gain discipline and preparation to Govern or hold public office, well if you do that’s a brainwashed mind.

    Your philosophical law of the qualitative and quantitative is such baloney, especially relating it to Governance and the holding of public office,there is so much evidence before us to disprove such philosophical law. We live in interesting times,the concepts of what Education is and how knowledge is dispense and the so called Education system with it’s rigidity geared to vocation will change.

  30. October 30, 2014

    Leblanc was educated. I have to say that Andre did not know the man personally. Leblanc self education , formal education and personal experience earned him the right to a Phd, just like Honeychurch. He should be called Dr Leblanc

    • October 30, 2014

      When Leblanc declared that his DLP would persue a socialist ideology he and all his ministers and members of Parliament of the DLP wore red ties. When he dressed in Jacket and tie to address royal visitors he wore a tie.
      He stopped wearing ties when he made shirt jacks the official wear of Dominica.

  31. foreign
    October 30, 2014

    So why didn’t Mr. Andre just learn what he learnt from a computer and not go attain higher education the traditional way instead…I wonder if he would be where he is today. You cannot compare Leblanc’s time to our time and also Leblanc was naturally intelligent but was limited because his education took him thus far. One cannot underestimate the importance of higher education for aspiring leaders this is madness..it cannot all be gained from a computer.

  32. Lone Ranger
    October 30, 2014

    I have been following with a heightened level of interest the press coverage of Dr. Andre’s lecture about EO Le Blanc.
    I read Judge Andre’s biography of Mr. Le Blanc, a brilliant portrait of a man who, in his simplicity and patriotic values, will increasing be seen as larger than life, especially compared to the current leaders of the Labour Party.
    There is just one question on my mind. If somehow I could make connection with Mr. Leblanc in his heavenly rest, I would like to ask his opinion of the current prime minister, Mr Skerrit. I’d literally give away everything I own to hear his answer, even if I harbor no doubt about his response.

    • Ma Moses
      October 30, 2014

      And the irony is that Roosevelt Skerrit hails from the same little community as that venerable Edward Leblanc, a cuckoo in the same nest? How fate can play tricks upon us like that.

      • .
        October 31, 2014

        You might not like the answer.

      • Ma Moses
        November 1, 2014

        Actually, I’m very curious what that answer would be

    • The Facts
      October 30, 2014

      Some people never look at the in-depth of the person; only on the surface. This is where common sense applies without higher education.
      Since you made such a comment, and while you are at it, you should ask LeBlanc if he received monies from Great Britain, how much he received and what he did with it..
      When LeBlanc was in power, how many poor nationals he assisted? Did any unemployed people receive financial assistance when he was a Chief Minister? This is what should be of concern to nationals. I will not exalt him for none of this was in effect during his tenure as Chief Minister.

      • Malgraysa
        October 31, 2014

        Dear lady, you forget perhaps that when Edward Leblanc was in charge Dominica was not independent. He was Premier and not Prime Minister. We governed our internal affairs (since 1 March 1967) but with Britain still handling our external affairs and defence, so your insinuations (because that is how I read them) of disbursement of funds received from Britain, do not arise.

  33. Francisco Telemaque
    October 30, 2014

    Andre is of the view that traditional higher education is necessary for aspiring leaders is a “misguided perception.”

    Ander, I think I know the purpose for your comments, nevertheless, I would like to say in spite of technology computers, and similar technologies still requires academical skills to utilize them. I am an Electronic/Electrical Engineer retired; I have some knowledge of computer repair, and programing , be informed that a computer is as such: if we insert garbage in the output will be garbage!

    When we elect people in government that should not be based on who screams the loudest. You need to understand a governmental representative must at least be able to communicate grammatically.

    There are occasions when a government minister have to meet with highly academically educated people, our representative should at least be able to understand the language these people speak. If I am discussing a telephone with someone, and when the time of the person came to respond with an answer pertaining to the subject been discussed which should be the telephone the respondent, gave an answer relating to a broken down truck. what significance would their answer have regarding the telephone which is the topic of the conversation?

    I will leave it here without over running my mouth! In any event we must emphasize education, and I do not mean simply elementary, and secondary, that is not good enough in the twenty-first century, some people today cannot function normally without a computer, or a calculator, what good is that?

    What happens when you are in the middle of doing something the computer, and calculator breaks down?

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Anonymous
      October 30, 2014

      Who asked you about yourself? I’m not interested.

    • FEDTEL
      October 30, 2014

      Now that is garbage u just spewed out there sir… LMAO :lol: :lol: :lol:

    • Country Man
      October 30, 2014

      Have you heard of open source education? You don’t need a traditional university system to access knowledge – This I know firsthand

    • SMH!!!!!!!
      October 31, 2014

      Francisco Tel…..I need to respond also as I am an Electrical Engineer.

      We get these people in my field all the time who can play around with computers with no formal training and are better at breaking codes, writing codes and fixing them than the folks who are formally trained.

      Understand they are brilliant folks!!!!

      Why don’t you keep your comments to yourself for once.

  34. Changer
    October 30, 2014

    well said

  35. Cosmos Odyssey
    October 30, 2014

    Irving Andre – you are a disingenuous person and I am appalled at such a misguided statement you made. I am assuming that DNO did get your quote correctly which I am re-posting. “Today, more than 60 years later, similar barriers are being erected to disqualify certain individuals from aspiring to leadership positions in Dominica.” You know very well that many young Dominicans have had the opportunity to go abroad and educate themselves especially within the last 15 years. Dominicans go as far away as China to study while some of them go to UWI to educate themselves. In the 60’s, educational opportunities were not as available as they are now, so to make that statement and think that some of us won’t catch the underpinnings of the case you are trying to make on behalf of a certain Political leader in Dominica is a miscalculation on your part. In the 1960’s America did not offer these opportunities to Black persons living there, yet there were thousands of universities. – South Africa -gained independence in 1934 yet Blacks were kept away up until 1994.

    Mr. LeBlanc was a good man for the time and he served his country well, but to use his memory to erect support for ‘the political leader’ you personally support is shameful and frankly disrespectful. You are a political hack! Education is important in life and no one is keeping anyone away. Many Dominicans make their own way some of them without the governments help to further their education. Not everyone will be educated and not everyone wants to, but to use the speech as a means to dissuade others from getting their education is simply misguided and partisan at best. You remind me of Edison James who once said that the Government was keeping children from attending school. You went to school and others will as well, some of them to do better than you ever will. It is part of the human condition to continue to challenge the status quo and improve upon the past. Come out and support your Party, (UWP) but don’t use this forum for thinly veiled attacks at those who govern. Either you enter the process or you keep quiet…..we’ve had enough.

  36. SHAME
    October 30, 2014

    This man, pride himself on his education! He is educating his kids, and you come to Dominica with this BS.

    You were appointed to a position of leadership because of your education.

    Dr. Andre – Respectfully this is HOG MANURE. *Lennox Voice* ” I say dat!”

  37. Referee
    October 30, 2014

    The learned judge has said everything I have said relative to the brouhaha DLP supporters stirred up about the qualifications of Lennox Linton to lead the United Workers Party.
    Dr. Andre’s opinion may not quell the useless controversy over Mr. Linton’s suitability to be a credible leader but it certainly serves to demonstrate the futility of the argument some supposedly intelligent people have advanced.
    To continue to promote the bogus argument that a university imprimatur is the only avenue to obtain the knowledge and the skills necessary to be an effective political leader is to demonstrate a vast reservoir of ignorance about the true nature of education, especially in the twenty first century.
    I admire Dr. Andre’s diplomacy in smacking down a fallacious argument without name calling. We all know what he was referring to. Ditto for his portrait of EO Leblanc whose contrast with the current DLP leader left no doubt that the current prime minister is an apostate who lacks the genuine stuff of which Eo Leblanc was made.

  38. truth.
    October 30, 2014

    We should all understand that we can stay at our homes and pursue our degre without sitting in the classroom . Thank God for technology.

  39. Bomboclat
    October 30, 2014

    But Andre you really not easy!!!

  40. La voix
    October 30, 2014

    I will differ with the learned judge on this subject because it allows non achievers to believe that they could govern without the necessary preparation and discipline.
    I support all the initiatives of the former premier Mr Leblance but that was conducted in a specific time when the realities were different which should not be compared to today’s demands for greater achievements from our leaders.
    There is a philosophical law of the qualitative and quantitate change in events which means that if we have many untrained people in governance this would not give us the qualitative leap that we need to engender a superior mindset but if we have more qualified leaders this could give us quantitative and qualitative change.
    So while I agree with the judge, I think everything must be placed in context, in time, in space and the level of development at the time. To develop we should emphasize the following:
    Education for all,
    Common sense from all,
    Spiritual mindset both individual and collective
    Collective wisdom both historical and current.
    We should not short change the people we represent and if we are not prepared those with more responsibility and authority will assume the powers of those who are not prepared therefore Mr. Leblanc had a good programme of wanting to live by the creed of all for each and each for all but while this is still appropriate we cannot conclude that everyone will live by that, therefore we need to prepare our people to be responsible and not depend on government for everything or be the subject of exploitation from those who are elected to lead because power corrupts absolutely and all they do is prepare a way to lead themselves to maintain the status quo.

    • Dreaded Rasta
      October 30, 2014

      I understand totally where you are coming from but you shed more light on what he actually said. Because he did not say education was not needed but rather that traditional higher education was not really a need. He gave the example of the lawyer who didn’t go to law school but became a top lawyer based more on drive and free education-the internet.

      I graduated high school but did not go to college and I have the discipline needed to go forth in this life. The youth just need to know themselves then have a drive to be anything they want to be. But it’s apparent that money have corrupted our drive so we fall asleep at the wheel and rather than trying to be leaders and innovators we have become followers. It’s a case of i see you do something and you are becoming a success but instead i come in and try to do it better than you I stick to your level or even lower but I’m making money when i could be making more money.

      • Just Observing
        October 30, 2014

        Dr. Andre’s comment must not be taken as a passing comment. It has anti-Skerrit motifs written all over it. He writes very well. Is very intelligent and certainly did his research to present to us a “portrait of Leblanc’ But Dr. Andre live sin Canada. He has made his life in Canada working hard and excellently at what he does. Kudos to him. But I live here. I know who the individuals are who are aspiring for leadership of this country. I believe I am in the best position to make that determination. I firmly believe that for a small island nation like ours, trying hard to find its niche in the world, you need tried and tested leadership, schooled in the discipline of hard work to be critiqued or tested by others. Lennox Linotn does not have that training. In fact he loathes criticism so much that perhaps this might have been the problem he had with going after a higher education – even whenhe could pay for it. Whilst PM Skerrit might have a speech defect, I believe more in his ability to deliver that the smooth talking Lennox Linton who up to today is still not coming up front with any details of his economic plan. That is where his lack of education fails him.

    • Gary
      October 30, 2014

      Your opening statement is so absurd and shows how brainwashed you are. Your type of thinking is based on tunnel vision and not understanding the true meaning of “Education” To suggest that Justice Andre comments allows non achievers to believe that they could govern without the necessary preparation and discipline is somewhat misleading on your part. Is it your belief that someone needs to attend an academic institution for four years to gain discipline and preparation to Govern or hold public office, well if you do that’s a brainwashed mind.

      Your philosophical law of the qualitative and quantitative is such baloney, especially relating it to Governance and the holding of public office,there is so much evidence before us to disprove such philosophical law. We live in interesting times,the concepts of what Education is and how knowledge is dispense and the so called Education system with it’s rigidity geared to vocation will change.

    • bigred
      October 30, 2014

      President Ronald Reagan of the USA was in power for two consecutive terms and Sir John Major former Prime Minister of England in recent time served as PM for 7 years; both were long after Leblanc era and both men did not have fromal degree and academic qualifications – what they had is sound leadership qualities, intelligence, integrity and they knew how to motivate others; and those qualities are not necessarily time defined. Bill Gates is a high school drop out without a degree yet still he was able to create a company which is now one of the leading IT companies in the world. So I understood the PhD to be saying that it is not just academic qualifications more specifically academic qualification that qualifies one for leadership roles but rather the qualities and traits exhibited by Leblanc is equally and in some cases most important a criteria for good leadership- and he also said in essence that his life and leadership should be emulated.

    • shaka zulu
      October 30, 2014

      The judge is simply saying that going to a university today is not the only form of being informed or educated. Back in the days books were in libraries and libraries were in university and only the wealthy could afford. Today books are online information is at your finger tips so we have no excuses why we cannot get educated. And yes you do not have to go to a University. Quit trying to make that so complicated.
      The talk about who went to university and who did not is useless if a man has proven to be informed and successful at his career.
      Having said this, if Lennox Linton, a so called novice, a no university degree guy who is very articulate can make the PM, a university educated, inarticulate guy loose sleep, then I pick Linton any time. Mainly for what he stands for.

    • The Facts
      October 30, 2014

      You should know that discipline is not taught in schools, colleges and universities. We hope they were taught discipline by their parents. Some people either have it or do not have it.

  41. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    I wonder how this judge would feel if his new boss showed up in Canada with Lennox’s qualification? I guess he is suggesting Dominica is not worth the best and should settle for less than mediocre.

    • JoJo
      November 1, 2014

      I guess they would feel very much the same as all the people working for Richard Branson or Bill Gates.

    • November 14, 2014

      Canada has had successful political leaders without a degree and the same is true of leaders who have succeeded in other fields of endeavor.

      These are often people who began when they were young at a lower level in field and worked their way up. Patience was their greatest asset. They gained people’s confidence because of the good work they did. Often they had a vision and the confidence to believe something could be done even when others doubted.

      I doubt if Dr. Andre would hesitate to practice the policy he has recommended in his lecture if it came to approving somebody in Canada for a leadership job who had less than a university degree on paper if he knew the individual had the character and the life experience that suited him or her for the job.

      I am in Brampton every weekend and frequently preach in the Sunday morning service of a large church to a congregation of 600 to 700 people. I follow the judge’s work somewhat and like a significant number of people am happy he is with us.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, D.D. International Evangelist.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

  42. DonK
    October 30, 2014

    I once heard a high level manager say in a general meeting that “… it would appear that the most financially secure business owner’s in the country of Dominica are made up of those that didn’t waste their time going to school…”

    As crude as it sounds it would appear to be true. The classic thing is that those who go and study mostly come back with their degrees to seek employment from these same ‘uneducated dropouts’. My qualification (M.Sc) only tends to mean anything to anybody when I’m looking for a job.

    Sometimes I think this whole ‘degree’ thing is just a conspiracy to try to make one think they’re successful when they’re actually drowning in debt. Almost like giving someone a gun full of blanks and they think they’re Rambo…until they let go the first shot….

  43. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    So can some one tell me why did Justice Andre go to law school ?

    • Anonymous
      November 1, 2014

      To provide stunted people with an excuse to ask inane questions.

  44. soutcityboyi
    October 30, 2014

    Well said my friend. Unfortunately, as usual, you will be misinterpreted. Not only Hon. Leblanc but also Hon. Pierre Charles and many of our great men and women of DA did not receive degrees and went on to do great things. They were honest and cared for the people and not their pockets. Education sa pas le esprit.

  45. Police Officer
    October 30, 2014

    I feel sorry for u mister judge Andre you got all your higher education and became a judge in Canada and that’s what u saying now u just a UMP acolyte. Just to excuse Linton I know which political party u support I know u personally once again as a well educated man I fell sorry for u.

    • November 1, 2014

      police officer you are meting out police brutality to the learned judge.

  46. Hmm
    October 30, 2014

    Man are we still on that topic? Lennox have clearly demonstrated his ability in every aspect to supersede the meager abilities of R.Skerritt. Literally all areas. Does it take every person of renown in the whole world to say that. Then if so the UWP must call on
    the Obama administration, the United Nations,UNESCO,CARICOM,,OECS etc. to endorse him if he is to convince Dominicans. Alas I pity us. While we wasting time on that, these inept govt ministers are busy securing themselves and family getting all they can. Classic misdirection. Now no one is asking to close all schools because of this. Not everyone is like,Lennox . The guy is special.

  47. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    Man are we still on that topic? Lennox have clearly demonstrated his ability in every aspect to supersede the meager abilities of R.Skerritt. Literally all areas. Does it take every person of renown in the whole world to say that. Then if so the UWP must call on
    the Obama administration, the United Nations,UNESCO,CARICOM,,OECS etc. to endorse him if he is to convince Dominicans. Alas I pity us. While we wasting time on that, these inept govt ministers are busy securing themselves and family getting all they can. Classic misdirection. Now no one is asking to close all schools because of this. Not everyone is like,Lennox . The guy is special.

  48. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    While I agree that in today’s world one doesn’t necessarily have to sit in a university of higher education since there are now numerous opportunities to obtain a degree online and through other means, to say that because Leblanc who governed in the 1960s and 1970s when there were little opportunities for higher education, not having had that opportunity equates to that of an aspiring leader in 2014 being a high school dropout AND NOT ATTEMPTING TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ANY OF THE NUMEROUS AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHER EDUCATION is ok, is rather laughable Mr. Andre. You should probably go back to Canada and profess that thesis and I am sure that the folks over there would have a filled day ridiculing this rather silly and naive assertion.

  49. Morihei Ueshiba
    October 30, 2014

    Wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy Andre kill dem fellas give it to dem hard brother, “We live in an age when a university drop out is the richest man in the world.” 8)

  50. Anonymous
    October 30, 2014

    Man are we still on that topic? Lennox have clearly demonstrated his ability in every aspect to supersede the meager abilities of R.Skerritt. Literally all areas. Does it take every person of re noun in the whole world to say that. Then if so the UWP must call on the Obama administration, the United Nations,UNESCO,CARICOM,,OECS etc. to endorse him if he is to convince D Now no one is asking to close all schools because of this. Not everyone is like that,Lennox is special. For

  51. solution2dispolute
    October 30, 2014

    so very true but await a bashing from king skerrit…the truth he cannot handle and it disturbs him greater..why? because their is no truth in him….

    • Anonymous
      November 1, 2014

      King skerrit is a master at what he does. He is truly a giant among men.

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