“This is an academic institution, this is not a sensational institution.”
This is the reason that president of the Dominica State College (DSC), Dr. Donald Peters, gave for cancelling a political debate which was expected to be held at the institution on November 18th 2014 among students.
“It was cancelled,” Peters told DNO. “This is an academic institution, this is not a sensational institution. And since the government of Dominica has called general election, we shouldn’t be adding or minus-ing on any one of the parties.”
Sources close to the matter told DNO that the debate, which was conceptualized in September by the school’s Debate Society, had the objective of encouraging civilized political discourse among students.
Three students were expected to debate on the topic, “Which political party is best poised to secure Dominica’s future?”
“All logistics of the event had been approved by the administration,” the source stated. “Final preparations was being made this week which included meeting of both sides with a representative of the Dominica Labour Party and the United Workers Party. On Wednesday 12th, 2014, the Debate Society was informed by the president that the debate is cancelled with immediate effect.”
A panel discussion by the society on police brutality was also axed, the source said.
The source noted that Peters said absolutely no politically-based events will take place on the campus until the December 8 poll.
Peters told DNO that if the students want to debate, they can do so elsewhere.
“I think if my students were to debate on campus, both parties would want to use their quotes and intellectual property rights, I can’t allow that. They can go and debate on the streets. So after election we can have all the debates as possible,” he said.
Meanwhile the source is lamenting the fact that the Dominica Labour Party was doing a premier launch of its manifesto on the campus on Thursday, which seems to contradict Peter’s dictates.
When quizzed on this Peters said the launch had nothing to do with the DSC.
“They are just using our building. Debate, launching, two different words,” he said.
You cancel the debate because you claim it is not a political institution but you bring the PM to show off his political manifesto at the college. You see why I cannot vote for labour cause nothing is fair.
“I am amazed at how well you know me and my lazy, butt kissing antics. Wow – we might actually know each other … better still, related.”(Peace).
You know the above quote is troubling to me: That entry follows mine, and if by any chance I said anything in response to your sentiments and your feelings are hurt, I must apologize, especially since you gave the impression that “we actually know each other, and better still, related.”
You know there will always be incidents like these, specially when we write under aliases, and fictitious names, so I advised in the future if you do not wish affix you name to your comments, perhaps you can simply write “Francisco” stay clear of this: I will understand, or if you are from Wesley, simply write the name that the called me when I was a kid in Wesley, simply throw one of my sisters, or brothers name in there by accident, and I will watch my fire tongue, and what it say.
Don’t be offended okay, If you have my number, and the comments are pertaining to me please give me a call, you can call me collect if you wish! You know in Dominica especially in Wesley and Marigot, we all are related, and I would hate to deliberately hurt the feelings of any of my relatives.
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
I think that Dr. Peters is not in charge of his own college but must always do what he is told by Skerrit.
https://www.facebook.com/Dominicayouthrevolution/posts/926780177334725?comment_id=926793064000103&offset=0&total_comments=2¬if_t=feed_comment Join the discussion!
Dr. Peters you ‘re 100% correct. They will have enough time to have political debates after December 8th. This is an institution of higher learning, and people need to understand what is going on. Debating is not the issue. It’s the timing of the debate. What is the purpose of the debate? and what are they going to get out of it? Nothing. Keep politics out for now. You have a right as the President to make decisions like this, and those who don’t like it to bad.
Please lord, do not turn your back on dominica. It’s like living in the time of pharaoh when you lord sent Moses to deliver your people. Pharoh’s heart was hardened and it cost him his son, the people grumbled and made graven images to worship, just as my people is worshipping their graven image.they have forgotten GOD, they worship and praise the creature more than the creator. History is repeating itself in a little island called dominica.may GOD have mercy on our souls.
The Dominica we knew growing up is no more. People no longer stand for something, hense they fall for anything. We are now under a heavy dictatorship which isn’t going anywhere for a very long time “maybe decades” because the opposition is weak. A lot of people I talk to don’t like the way the country is moving however, they don’t think UWP have what it takes to turn this country around. Therefore they say they’re voting DLP. I for one believe that Skerritt plan is to make Dominica a one party country and then comes the Tyranny
@UNKNOWN. How can one know what UWP can do unless they have the chance. Did anyone know what the current government would do 14 years ago? We are on a down spiral heading towards dictatorship and add 5 more years to that, would be disastrous. Go ahead and vote labour and we will suck salt. Dominicans will leave by the droves. You think it bad now. Make that mistake and put back those incompetent, corrupt, greedy, and wicked people in office and the entire Caribbean will laugh at us. WAKE UP DOMINICANS. WAKE UP FROM YOUR SLUMBER.
Is that the same Donald Peters of the sixties and seventies? Is that the same Donald Peters who was then a militant Black Power advocate, political activist, and proponent of open debate on national and international issues? How times have changed! Just reminiscing…!
smh Dr. Peters! A big Political Science Lecturer like you would speak like this. That’s a shame. Let the kids debate!
My Dear Dr. P,
Years ago, before you came back to Dominica I admired you as a patriot. Today, I will boldly state that I resent you as one of the biggest political hypocrite this land has seen. How dare you deprive the student of such a forum that could enlighten them and in the process prepare them for the future.
You my friend along with folks the Penguin looking Attorney have stolen our pride and independence from us and now you seem intent on silencing democratic voices. Such idiotic reasons for canceling the debate while allowing the launching of DLP manifestos is another reason why Change Is A Must!
Assertive, NOT Aggressive!
China’s influence on display
I always thought something was wrong with that man, he a closet labour boy. And he want DSC to be accredited worldwide. He is taking the labour party line, “shut your mouth”. china, cuba, communism,labour party, the sleepin the same bed. Where did this …….. get his degree from, the red clinic
all that supports communism will vote for skerrit on 8 December
But I dont understand why you all would think that Dr. Peters with all his degrees would need to bow down to skerro or bid his deeds. He is a man who is well versed and has alot of experience. A professor of several institutions who still up to this day gets offer from international states. I dont think this is political at all.
When Skerrit was teaching English at the Clifton Dupigny College now Dominica State College, for more that 3/4 of the session he used to campaign for labour and encourage we the students to vote labour…. Now the students can’t debate?? Ridiculous ?? It’s good for the teachers to incite the students into making a decision for their future and it is not good for students to encourage their peers into making the right decisions!! WE NEED OUR DEMOCRACY IN THIS COUNTRY !!!!! Why is it that in a democratic country, this man is trying to suppress the children’s rights????? Wake up Dominicans and smell the coffee ! Are we going to sit back and allow our country to become a communist one ? As this is the direction in which I see it heading..
There’s nothing like censorship at your educational institutions if it steps on the wrong toes. That should send a message to the students and people of DA regarding freedom of speech and expression. And you think that this is a free country?
I am extremely dissapointed in the Mr Peters as a DSC student. This debate would of educated the students on the economy of the country and what position the country stands in today. It would further educate the students about the plans of the DLP and UWP. Mr. Peters is just biased. The DLP launched their manifesto in the college and many students were seating listening to the different speeches from individuals such as the prime minister. Mr Peters come on show repsect to the DSC students opinion.
So where else are our Dominican students going to be able to discuss and learn about our politics if not at their own schools? Definitely not on the radio… Debates are about expressing your opinion, and if this hypocritical president is shutting them down, then he’s also saying that he refuses to have them express themselves. Shame on you Donald Peters!!!!!!
Well as one quote says ‘You can have all the education in the world and still be foolish.’ That is so true!
Time will tell. Flex your muscle my boy. People you will age and die miserably.
Dominicans Peters has just demonstrated that democracy s dead in Dominica. Dominica have regressed backwards, to save our democracy vote wisely, d ot vote by Party colours but based on the candidate presented to you. Watch it, Change is necessary to save Dominica. Young people this is your future,so use your vote and vote for democracy .
I am all for debate but folks, let’s be real here. Look at the debate topic. Election is due in less than one month. Manifestos have only been recently launched. Candidates are still being launched. Do you really believe that the topic “Which political party is best poised to secure Dominica’s future?” a wise choice for a debate now? Now? Really? I believe that the topic is volatile and opens the school and the students and the debate teams to much ridicule depending on which “party” wins the debate. I agree with Dr Peters. The topic is too partisan, too “political”. A more objective topic would have been better.
Lol lol we don’t want any political launching on campus either no debate no launching we protesting!!!
Did I read correctly – “the DSC has nothing to do with the luanch they are just using the facility” and this man has a PhD. hahahahahaha!! reminds me of the other PhD – ” I like it; I really like it ; I really really like it.”
This is a shame. I cannot believe what I am reading. Is that really coming from a college president. When I listen to people like Dr. Peters, Dr.A, and Dr, Eisenhower, it makes me wonder if education is all it is sold to be. These are the things our teachers in society need to encourage. Intellectual arguments on any subjects without being personal. Debate on issues, facts, and ideology. Mr. Peters what next are you going to do dictate what information should be taught and what facts should be left out. By this decision, you have clearly indicated you do not deserve to be in the position you hold. I have serious doubts that the college can create leaders with open mind and balanced thought with you being uncharged. Your actions only lend a hand in fueling the ignorance in our society.
This guy needs to be axed. Our future leaders of society deserve a lot better than this. In the interest of the students and the positive image of this monumental academic institution, Peters (no Dr honors for you) should be replaced with immediate effect.
He is a danger to our young developing minds.
Let’s be real and call a thing a thing…. If it quacks like a duck and looks like a duck then guess what it’s a duck…and in this case Donald Peters is a hypocrite. Even the DSC students have more guts than him! From the information given in the article it appears that the debate would have been an educational yet fair and level headed debate. After all the young voters appear to be the bigger persons in terms of political discussions…older folks are ignorant and are not open to hear views from either side.
HE is a total 100% hypocrite and I support you!!!
This is and ACADEMIC institution as he claims, then let the world and events within the ACADEMIA take place!
Students are only able to contribute, learn, be effective and efficient within the abilities to learn through experience and the current events taking place within their surroundings and the world at large. As a school president this man should promote such debate within the arena of Political Science, ensuring though, that students adhere to the rules of the society, rules of public debate and public speaking, that it turns out formally, a process whereby, students are able to debate in a constructive manner. The topic is off in a sense that it will be an extremely hot debate and things may get heated, however, I think they should only change the topic a bit and go on with their debate.
As an academic institution, the students have the rights and privileges to assume any position, produce any event that will ignite and promote scholarship and understanding within the major or study. As far as a political science major, a member of political science honor societies, I think that his reasoning is amateur and ridiculous. If these students know their rights and they can raise their voices, I say go ahead and work around those rules. You have a student government and you have a student handbook, USE IT!!!
You rather have the students debate hot and fight on the streets rather than see them constructively debate a topic that could help them to raise their youthful voices over something that will add some positive light and take over the negatives… Sometimes we need to consider that the positive outweigh the negative and as a President, you should promote and try to show these students how to debate formally and constructively rather than sending them on the streets to debate…. AND YOU CALL YOURSELF A PRESIDENT…A leader… OH PLEASE!!!!
Nahhhhhhhhh Students need to know their Rights!!
We need new leadership in DA at all levels
Dr.Donald Peters,this is a black eye for you “grooms”. As an institution of higher learning, you should be happy that the young minds in your care are active in something which affects their lives, and want to be involved.You might just have a future minister of government in your institution. The tone of your comment, that they can take it to the street, after they were given permission to host the event, is regrettable, and for a man of your intelligence, you have disappointed many.It suggests you took orders from your political bosses and canceled the debate.Most institutions of higher learning are bastions of free speech,and free thought.I’m sure you experienced that whilst studying and working in the USA,now you are guilty of trying to turn back the clock and and lead the youth back to the Patrick John era of suppression.Shame on you Dr Peters,this will not stand neither will your late apology, which I know will come later.My advice to the youth who have been disrespected is to protest,let me see you lock them out or expell them,and where will you get the revenue from to run the college.Stop playing petty political games with Dominica’s future.
The students need to do a “PROTEST DEBATE” outside the walls of the College. Students in Universities and Colleges all our the world have stage protest and make their voices heard. Please students do not accept Peter’s refusal. There are many ways to skin a cat. You have rights.
Oh Jehovah God, whose throne is established on righteousness and justice – let your finger fight for our right cause in Dominica in Jesus name
I hope you like tyrannies goy because you’re living in one
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-8kmPJKGgM
These people are digging their own graves.
I attended the Dominica Grammar School in the sixties, we had regular debates way back then on all manner of topics. So we have advanced 40-50 years and students cannot hold debates in the institution they attend. I just hope the young people are perceptive enough to digest and analyse what this all means, a diminishing of our democratic rights and liberties.
I guess that after the idiocy displayed by Dr Aaron(a man being paid $150,000 of our taxpayers money) at the last debate, when he could not answer simple questions posed to him by the student(all he could say was “I like that, I really like that” they don’t want further embarrassments.
i cannot believe peters……..but lets get this strait …..i dont think any political party had anything to do with it because they both sent representatives to discuss with the debating students to help them strenthen their points……. and both representatives were extremely exited about the upcoming debate……..peters is politically bias……this is a debate to educate the young undisided voters on both parties which will help them make their dicision………this could benefit both parties…..let the kids debate
Lennox, you have my permission. Put a bull’s eye on Donald Peters’ chest. One of the first things on your agenda if you win the next election is to get rid of that political operative.
If he wants to politicize his position, that is his choice, but he has to be prepared to face the consequences of his political actions.
Preaching violence!
I was not at all preaching violence. All I said he should be marked for dismissal if UWP wins. That position should be based on merit and political machinations have no place at that institution. If Donald Peters what to introduce politics into the equation, then he should be treated an a political appointee.
With all such appointments, one expects to be terminated when their party lose power.
There is nothing complicated about that.
Very bad suggestion; victimization should not be on the agenda; there are more important issues to be resolve, than firing and idiot!
Hahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahah!
If it is ordained for the UWP to win the election, Peters petty attitude will not prevent the UWP from wining. Sometimes it is better to allow wicked people to deal with their conscience rather than fight fire with fire. Maybe when Skerrit loses he might become so ashamed of the obstacles he placed in the way of the UWP he might on his own accord decides to leave.
If I have an enemy I know has power over me; rather than I sufferer my enemy’s wrath, I would ensure I get out of my enemy way. Anyway, I do not believe Lennox is capable of victimizing anybody, nor he planed on victimizing anyone, one who believe in God does not entertain vicious and victimizing actions.
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
Amen!
i cant believe what am hearing from this man …..don’t they study political science at this college…correct me if am wrong. so why would this sort of topic not be approved to be debated among students. this man is living in the ice age and obviously does not remember we are a democratic society where even the little kids who are not old enough to vote have a political view these days. so why stop the students from debating such an important topic one which affects them? he needs to stop show how political he is and allow the debate to go on.
in fact he is a polical science lecturer
Well then he is one political science lecturer that I wouldn’t EVER take his class…. Gosh thank God i took Dr Andrew’s class when I was at DSC back then…… the democracy to say what we believe in class and to formally discuss and argue all types of topics while understanding the system of political science… and where’d it put me… a BA in Pol Sci with high honors!… Lord if I was there, I think it would be me and this man debating all now with police! AWA man that is demolishing the efforts of students who should be free to broaden their academic faculties…but this man doesn’t seem to even have all his mental faculties in place to be drowning the students that miuch! SMH!!!!
Our democracy on this beautiful island we call home is under serious threat.
When free debate/ discussion is stifled at the highest institution of learning on the island. on the most relevant topic of the day . It is time for Dominicans to stop thinking color. Think of your children. Is that what you want for your children?. Their views are no longer relevant? My people wake up.
Our population has been blinded over the 15 years. It will stare them in their eyes but they will not seevand some refuse to see
Seriously??? So why did Skerrit the divine launch manifesto there?? You want to take grown ma for fool.
Do we have a democracy in Dominica or a dictatorship, what is wrong with having a debate between political parties?
Yes alas, what is this? Don’t you worry, God is in control. Dominica will survive.
What this little boy peters thinks, is this a democracy or a dictatorship? I don’t know why these guys are imposing their communist ideology on the people.
They are imposing it because the people are not standing up against it. What will it take for people to wake up here?
The students should take their debate to a new venue in protest. The single college we have on island is an educational institution yes but its in educational institutions that most ideas, leaders, protest , changes are born and that is where the debate should take place. If not the students then who is going to debate the issues of the country. the students should not vote in protest. their leader should take the whole college down Roseau in protest. Thats what major educational institutions do.
This guy Peters is full of it. A grown and supposedly degreed and lettered man is reduced to being a mouse by pure partisan politics. Therefore anyone with a heart and a half brain should feel sorry for our students and future leaders and also for this man.
Dr. Peters,, Dr. Lenox Honychurch, Priest, Pastors …
All thee people have been bought with jobs, diplomatic passports, ect….They dare not go against the wishes of the MASTER….When he calls they must obey….or they will be dealt with severely…
The same thin has happened to our private an public sector agencies..
When the MASTER does you a favour you must never forget or you will be dealt with severely..
THAT IS WHAT DOMINICA HAS COME TO…
AND THAT IS WHY TEAM DOMINICA HAS LED A MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE..
IT IS LED AND SUPPORTED BY ORDINARY DOMINICANS FOR DOMINICA.
LENNOX LINTON AND Q95 IN PARTICULAR MATT PELTIER HAVE CHAMPIONED THIS CAUSE…
THIS IS NOT AN EASY MONSTER TO DEFEAT,,,IT HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF AND HAS MONEY…
BUT DEFEAT IT WILL BE
BECAUSE EVIIL CAN NEVER PROSPER FOREVER. CHANGE IS A MUST…NOT AN OPTION!!!!
Soooooo true
Some of you are so blinded by your hatred for all that is Labour that you are unable to separate the forest from the trees. An organized debate with leaders from both sides is one thing – something that should be encouraged but to have party supporters “debate”/argue that their party is the better of the two is complete nonsense. How is that different from the guys on the bus stops or the rum shop having those arguments? If these students and faculty want to campaign for their party then they should do so without the pretense of a “debate”. Hogwash!!
Peace its not that people are debating for their parties. When there are debates at learning institutions a topic is chosen and some debate for and against. That is how its done.
Looking, I get that. I encourage debates on policies and issues. What are their policies regarding xyz? Where do they stand on the abc issues? But according to DNO, Three students were expected to debate on the topic, “Which political party is best poised to secure Dominica’s future?” That’s a whole different issue.
Utter rubbish
it happens in the most developed of countries..Students are called to air their views and debate on relevant topics of the day.
have you looked at elections around the world where students at every level get to discuss on what is important to them. Is it that you have red eye that you cannot see what is honest and true.
Relevant topics or issues, not on political parties.
The difference is that it is organized with rules, guidelines and a moderator. The students were already prepped by representatives of both parties. The stage was set for a civil discussion that would allow the students an opportunity to show what they have learned from their communication/debating classes. We know the labor party is afraid of any thing that sounds like an intelligent discussion. Is mapwie, gutter style politics you guys love. No wonder Dr. Peters suggests that they should take their debate to the streets.
Hogwash; you are a fool!
Such debates: Political debates are held in every educational institutions internationally: From the experience some students gain debating in class rooms and on campuses, many have emerged leaders of the more developed nations such as Germany, France the United States of America, and Canada.
People like you and Peters are so backward that all you can see is Skerrit behind! The more that little dictator kick you all in your behind, is the lower you bow to him, kissing his butt, no wonder he has reproached you people by telling you all how much money he spend feeding your hungry bellies!
You prefer the crumb he feeds you all than demanding that he develop the country so that you can get a damn job, when he defecates you and Peters, and the rest of his puppets can clean his feces, and his Butt that still will not prevent him from treating some of you like dogs. He subjected a grown man like Peters to the level of a child.
I know Peters, our age are close; nevertheless, I would never reduce myself to the level of child; no matter what the circumstances: the man is worst than a damn two year old, its a shame Peters has no integrity, or dignity. When a man looses his dignity, it is all over for him!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
I am amazed at how well you know me and my lazy, butt kissing antics. Wow – we might actually know each other … better still, related.
Anyway, we are all entitled to our opinion. I will state again, I believe debates should be encouraged among our young people. However, I am not in favor this particular one. I agree with Dr. Peters!
Mr. Telemacque,
Do you expect anything better from
Donald? ………
he should never be heading an educational
Institution
Shame! Shame!
CHANGE IS A MUST!
Dr. Peters I strongly disagree with you. Students should be able to debate on things that may affect them. Having the debate would prove your impartiality towards either parties
“This is an academic institution, this is not a sensational institution.”(Donald Peters).
I do not know of any academic institution in the modern world where students are denied the right to hold a debate, political or otherwise. You know; the little respect I reserved for you is now out the window. You are too damn political, you who claims to be president of the DSC should be neutral and not display your alliance with Skerrit in what is a public institution. Rather than you allow yourself to become a puppet of some politician, you priority should be to do whatever it takes to associate DSC with some major university somewhere in order to make DSC an accredited institution. The pieces of paper you hand out to the student on graduation worth nothing any other place excepts in Dominica. Political debates are held in every institution I attended, college, and university: The purpose of such debates are help develop the leaders of tomorrow.
You are such a puppet, you fear if you allow the students to express their political views someone, may say something that is not in Skerrit’s favor, and by the time it is all over, Skerrit will fire you! Be man, stand on your own two feet and stop crawling on your belly groveling at Skerrit’s feet. You call yourself Dr. If you are that smart as you claim, you should be in a position to seek employment internationally, in the teaching profession. We remember DSC was named Dupigny College or something like that, the Dominican born who started the college of which you are now the head; the man is now employed in an academic institution as a professor; teaching in the state of Florida.
People who are qualified, and know what the are doing can always find a job any place on earth. When I started in the field of Electronics, I did it through Home Study with a school called National Technical School here in Los Angeles, now defunct. When I came to Los Angeles thirty-three years ago I went to NTS, and ask about placement for students who graduated from their institution. They hook me up with an Electronic Company in Japan, the company sent me some documents to complete among the papers was a written test which I wrote, and passed. The time came when the company was going to fly me to Japan, I hit an obstacle, in that I did not have a Green Card, so I could not travel in and out of the United States at random. So if you are doctor Peters, it should not be difficult for you to engage in employment outside of Dominica.
I know people from all over the Caribbean, from Guyana in the South to Jamaica in the North who are teaching in Universities and colleges Even in the State of California, I know Dominica teaching at a university in Anaheim about fifty miles South of Los Angeles, I know another lady, a friend of mine and I say her name: She is in the person of Frances Bellot. One day I went somewhere, just so happen some one where I was from I told the person Dominica, the woman immediately ask me “do you know Dr. Bellot? I said yes she is my friend, the woman told me “I am her student” a few weeks later I was invited by Frances to attend a party at here home, to my surprise the woman who told me is Frances student was also in attendance at the party.
So rather than you impose your political wish on students in order to save your butt from Skerrit’s wrath, get out and find another Job, and stop been a damn puppet!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
This doesn’t make any sense. Young citizens are supposed to be encouraged to debate and discuss politics.
“You can debate on the streets”. WOW…what message are you sending to your students? What sort of commitment is there to real education, critical thinking and fostering minds that push society’s norms?
A debate would be “sensational”? That can only mean that you have not invested in teaching your students HOW to debate. The whole point of a properly orchestrated debate is to cut through sensation and allow a moment for real consideration and cross examination of facts.
Oh how the truth scares the DLP! Dominicans please take note of how your “elite” choose to keep you deaf, blind and dumb. Clearly you can’t support them and challenge them on issues. Its complete and unconditional support or nothing else. Does that sound democratic to you?
Regardless of what party one supports, a political Debate is very important for a Nation and especially students. Dr Peters needs to be replaced. He is too close minded.
Can you imagine such a statement from the head of the highest educational institution in the country? I wonder how the rest of the world is looking at us?
Mr Peters has repeatedly proven himself when ever he opens his mouth. Can Dominica not find someone better to head this institution, obviously his PhD does not say much or does it? Is it just me?
It is not just you
I do not buy that Mr. Any way, find another topic that is hitting everyone of us very hard today. Lime sent a text to their customers to check their website (time4lime.com/dm/) for the adjusted rates; which was effective October 28. It shows that among others that lime mobile to lime mobile is dollar a minute (0.98c).
Debate on the topic : LIME rates versus DIGICEL.
?! This isn’t encouraging young people to really KNOW who it is they’re voting for. I say Dr Peters get some spare cash for cancelling this event by some politician— this is VERY un-academic!!!
Lord have mercy, what a hypocrite!!!!
The source noted that Peters said absolutely no politically-based events will take place on the campus until the December 8 poll….
“They are just using our building. Debate, launching, two different words,”
This is hypocrisy at the highest level! In American Politics ALL parties attend Colleges and Universities to engage in debates. As a matter of fact it is these institutions of higher learning that gives Political Parties the platform to sway undecided voters in their favor.
Dr. Peters should be utterly ashamed of himself. It appears that the Labor Party has its claws in the good Doctor too. If even our State College cannot make independent decisions and has to bow to the DLP’s fear of debating the issues affecting us all, we are without a doubt heading towards total dictatorship here in Dominica. May God help us all!!!
We saw it at the World Creole Music Festival last month where the King Dice, seven time calypso king was barred from singing songs of his reportoire and of his choice only because the political directorate was afraid of the anticipated response to the song ” its time for change” but trust me it just the beginng there is more to come !! we are just so tolerant it is not funny.
i agree with Dr Peters.
The Media would definitely turn it into a Pappyshow. I agree with Dr. Peters!
My conclusion is that ALL labourites CANNOT debate the issues at hand!
You must be a PhD also
Wickex soul u know very well the youths are up to date with the misery that skerro has brought to this country u avoiding debate..
Lord help Dominica. Dr.Peter ,Dr. Honeychurch, Dr Aaron etc. all have to sing the same tune to keep themselves employed because clearly their so called academic qualifications is obsolete under this administration. What is the value of an education after all. Such an eye opener to young college students and aspiring academics. Will they see it….
Baptist, just because someone is called doctor, that title does not make them better, or cause them to know better, or more than anyone else! Only in Dominica we find people revere such people, I live in a city and surrounding county’s with a population of maybe fifteen million or more people.
There are millions of people who have a doctorial degree in their hip pocket walking around and can’t find a job okay!
There is a place in London called Hyde Park, if you ever go to England try to visit Hyde Park on a Saturday after midday, the thousands of people you will find around there talking politics, or any other subject which may interest, half of those people have more than one degree in something, doctorial degrees; that is not a big deal.
You know in Los Angeles, you can work all week, and on Saturday’s only; attend certain classes, and peruse a doctorial degree, that happens every day. It is only in Dominica, people revere those who calls themselves Dr. There are so many people who are identified as some “Dr.,” and I may add Dr. of nothing; when one visits a medical doctor here if you look at the prescription they issue, you will find that almost all of them sign their names to prescription and behind their name they are careful to write M.D.
Assuming I gave you a prescription: I would sign it Francisco Telemaque M.D. so you know that person is a medical doctor and not a fake Dr. Our people are full of crap!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
Amen to that Bro. Tell dem
Once again, I would like to reiterate,” it is better to be considered a fool, then to open your mouth and remove all doubts.” Regardless to our political leanings, we must be more responsible in our actions, especially when we hold top positions and especially when young people, look up to us for guidance. A political debate was held at the same college a few months ago. Representing the UWP was Mr. Joshua Francis and representing the DLP was Dr. Aaron. This activity was carried live on radio, live streaming and subsequently placed of social media in the form of a video. Mr. Peters should tell the Dominicans what has gone wrong since the last debate. I hope Mr. Peters realizes by his actions, he inviting a seriously division at the college.
Lololololol laughable
Fellow student
This shows that Donald Peters is only protecting hi is political job. I think yof students are the leaders of tomorrow and no matter what your political beliefs are I do think you have a right as a citizen to debate the issues
My advice to you is find another venue and continue with the debate
You have the support of Dominicans at large
Concern Dominican
Check the Bishop not father Thomas you know – for the Goodwill Parish Hall – remember the use of Arawak House was denied to the UWP; while the College was given to the DLP . Remember King Dice was barred from singing his songs at WCMF after the DFC was so instructed; The Bishop under pressure so he will give the Parish Hall easy because to do otherwise will just be confirming what everybody already know hahahaha. So he give to the UWP for the launch of their candidates so they will give for the debate trust me
I am in agreement.
Yes I. This is my Dominica…….SMH
Sick Mind…People like Dr. Peters are retarding the growth of our young mind for political reasons…
“This is an academic institution, this is not a sensational institution.”
“We will not allow political debates on our campus but we will however allow a POLITICAL party to launch its Manifesto here. and this has absolutley nothing to do with politics.”
“Well, no constitution can stop us, so who the hell is Peters to even think he can stop us anyway?”
I am so so so enraged at this **************!!!! This is pure *************!!!! so bias and unfair…I just can’t……uggggghh!!!!
Double standard fellas …..time will tell.
So a political manifesto is launched on campus and no problem, but a debate (which is a customary activity in academic circles) is not allowed? What is this guy smoking?
Huh
Mr serious man.
Peters, . Manifesto presentation is in my mind a political event. Government saying these are our plans if elected…….an event that can be deemed as being part of the whole campaign.
On the other hand, the political debate is indeed educational. Is Political Science not an area of study??
Some may have in it the potential of swaying minds and in event a deciding factor as to the party for which some of the students may be led to vote for.
Dr Peters everybody can see right through you, doing the masters will, why would you not want students to involved in something like that, any other institution would grab the opportunity, but what, we know where your loyalty is, so we are not surprised at all, lost all respect for you Dr, we know exactly what the establishment is, you don’t have to spell it out for us, so what, because you carry the credential DR, you think that every body else is dumm, think again, anyway, is this Dr credential associated with medical, I bet not, just a credential, could me a doctorate in anything, science, agriculture, politics, and the list goes on.
This is why some of our politicians sound so uneducated! Because expressive conversations are not encouraged in your schools!!??
Mr. Peters are you the same one who always say that the kids of today are the leaders of tomorrow? Maybe you was just saying that but not really doing anything to make it happen. Now I see your true colours.
Mr. Peters ! It was good for one set and not for the others?
All over the world, universities partake in debates and political discussions, so this goes to show that guys like you do not want us to move ahead with the reast of the world. But you cannot keep the students back for ever.
Things will change soon!
“They are just using our building. Debate, launching, two different words,”
Debate Launching, two different words yes – but both political in this instance – the same politics you’re not interested in encouraging at the school.
Boss is just best you had say you doh want nobody saying anything that might make UWP look good in an institution you control.
The way some labourities hide from intellectual discuss leads me to believe that even they are unsure of their choice and fear that their eyes may be opened if they are to hear other sides of the story.
“Debate, launching, two different words.” Really Dr. Peters? Oh yes, you so right. One is a political campaign, the other is an academic event, dealing with real hands-on issues. What are you afraid of Dr. peters? You do not want political debates on your campus, but you can stand at the commencement ceremony and campaign for Labor by taking cheap shots at the UWP. Dr. Peters please visit the facebook page of one of your lectures and you will see how she admittedly boasting of how she campaigns for Labor in the classrooms. One day, just one day these double standards will come to an end in this country. how long? NOT LONG!!!
Well done Mr. Peters! The ignorant ones will not be able to comprehend that!
Woe to those who have eyes and cannot
see. You have just either displayed ignorance
or is sleeping-wake up!
What is there to comprehend?
It is simple -Donald is a “puppet” of the ruling administration.
He has to sing for his supper.
If he could secure employment in North America, he would not
be “playing boom boom fly”
One can do of their share, but one cannot do more
than their time.
Mr Peters you too lie this is just double standards make up your mind
I totally agree with the President as it is Dominicans are just too political and this would just add fuel to the fire. The students should focus on their work and not get too involved in the political parties campaign and events on campus.
Students are taught how to debate, isn’t that part of their work? And it’s these same students that will be voting on Dec.8. Education is indeed important but if your country is lead in such a way that you can’t even exercise what you’ve learnt then what’s the point of education?
Foreign you sound like one who is uneducated. This is part of academia.
That is the stupidest thing I have ever heard in my entire life. When I studied in the US around election time students were encouraged to debate the hot issues on campus.
That says a lot to me. Very disappointed in this decsision. What are we teaching our students? This is not primary school! This is an institution of higher learning where students should be encouraged to discourse and debate especially when the issues are relevant and current. Magwaysah!
Issues – again not political parties or candidates!
Dr.Peters probably knows that universities and academia in general should be a bulwark for free thinkers and libertarianism. You argument of division between academical and political is odorous and I believe that Dr. Peters true motives remain hidden…
I glad for him but he used a Graduation ceremony to give his bias political views… and try to sway the minds of young students. I am glad that you are now realizing the this is a Educational Institution but too little too late to set the pace.
Boy… I guess that is what it feels like to live under a dictatorship… Dominicans you gave them to drink so now you can’t complain when they want to pee.
Wow! … And just like that, a discussion that could have been productive and informative is cancelled! And we say that young people are not educated, don’t care about the issues and blah, blah, blah!
Really what do you expect.
Do you honestly think that Dr. Peters will allow students to show up the incompetency of the Dominica Labour Party, after all they put Him there.
Pure a××ness. Debate vs launching manifesto. I have a working brain Mr Peters. Your decisions are contradictory. If the students incurred any costs in preparing for the debate I hope someone holds you responsible.
Dr. Peters, these are like mixing apples and oranges and tell me they are oranges. How can you allow a political event at the school campus and then turn around and denied the student body the same right to do so? Also, in all fairness, will you allow the UWP to have a launching on the school property as well, if the y should request the use the building and not the student body?
There is more to this than what Dr. Peters is either willing to admit or at liberty to disclosed. We can read through the lines. To me, this is at the heart of pure ignorance and a one-party dominance and dictatorship – isn’t the General Election a democratic process or should we rightly conclude that the election is already “set”? It would appear to the lay person that these two PhD’s are outright supporters of the DLP and is trying to influence the outcome, and that is very unfair. Both PhD’s are of course, entitled to their personal opinions and support whoever they want but to be in an official capacity, and by appearance trying to bias the minds of the citizenry sends a distasteful message on the surface. These individuals and others should not be allowed in their official capacities, to be political inclined as they should at minimal be “neutral”.
Again, I don’t care who the reader or public supports that is not my concern here, I am an Independent thinker and voter who is looking in from the outside and trying to be objective and fair. From my perspective, I want to have both parties and any other party or candidate(s) in this General Election manifesto so I compare them to see who are being realistic and who are not. This election should be about the country’s future not man or any one political party and we the citizen need to understand that.
Dr. Peters speaks with a bifurcated tongue I’m afraid. He is reported to have declared that “no political based event will take place on the campus until the Dec. 8 poll”.
But did the DLP not use the same State College to launch their manifesto yesterday in a sea of red? I hear that senior managers in govt. service were almost summoned to attend by personal printed invitation during their office hours, causing many desks to be unmanned and people to be unavaialable. What do you cal that Dr. Peters if not a political event? Double standards Dr. Peters, to say the least. What must your students think of you? Malgraysa!
I think it is rather unfortunate that we avoid all situations where students/politicians/general populace are given the opportunities to debate professional on politics or rather on issues pertaining to Dominica’s development.
When we prevent open and civil discussions, we continue to contribute to ignorance and we will remain uneducated.
“Absolutely no political events will take place at the College until December 8!”” yet you warmly welcome the DLP to do its premier launch of its 2014 Manifesto!
Lord please grant us a safe and free elections, in Jesus’ name. AMEN.
Sadly, this is what you get when you put a political hack in charge of an academic institution. Donald Peters can no longer claim to be promoting academic standards. He has in effect declared himself a political operative whose mission is antithetical to a healthy academic environment.
It is disheartening to see an academic institution whose mission should be to nurture the citizens of tomorrow are being denied the opportunity to engage in the kind political boot camp that will make them better citizens and better leaders.
This shameful episode at the Dominica State College is clear manifestation of the corruption that has spread nationwide and has come to engulf a center of learning . It comes on the heels of another academic custodian, Lennox Honneychurch of the UWI Open Campus prostituting himself by his disgraceful endorsement of a DLP leader whose record of corruption sends the right message of honesty and good citizenship to aspiring leaders.
Both incidents at the DSC as well as at the UWI Open Campus are clear examples of the reach of Skerrit’s corrupt culture and how it is permeated the very foundation of the society. OMG, even the churches have been corrupted.
I thought the Dominica State College (DSC) is a learning institute and all types of learning / education should be entertained and be part of the mainstream.
If that is the case Dr. Peters, then why did the labour party had their pre-manesfesto launch at the DSC? What would call that, isn’t that a political event.
In Dominica’s development stage, we cannot have leaders choosing what can be debated and what cannot be debated in our educational institutions.
All ideas have to content and civil discussion must be part of our society on all topics. I am very disappointed in the position the Dominica State College has taken as this does not utter well for the institution and the Educational System on a whole.
Does the position of the DSC have anything to do with the reason why the PM doesn’t want to debate the leader of the UWP? Just asking.
this man allows the launching of the labour party manifesto at the dsc but then turns disallows a bate among the students of the institution. this is just an abuse of authority…these people are making a mockery of our society!
This guy uses his position to spew his personal political biases but will not allow the hosting of a beneficial civic activity to uplift the brighter brains at the college and society at large.
People like Dr. Peters are keeping Dominica down and guys like Senior counsel Tony Astaphan the men at the Election Commission, among others… yes you COMRADES!
Debates take place in American universities in election season all the time does that man them sensational intuitions and not academic one. Dr. Peters u have only added ur voice to list of ppl attempting curtail freedom of speech and the right to discuss issues affecting Dominicans lives. i would think u would encourage such discourse among ur student body cause after all educational intuitions are where young minds are supposed to be stimulated to develop their selves and their countries
Every rope have an end and every road has a bend…How long?…not long!!!.. .CHANGE IS A MUST!!!
nothing to do with the DSC yet classes were cancelled so students could attened…
Look double standards in this country.. God have mercy.
Mr P…Man,
I thought the DSC was supposed to be developing critical and analytic thinkers, problem solvers and true patriotism to state?
I’m I wrong Mr Goofy?
Is Dr. Peters for real? This would have been a great opportunity for our future leaders. What is he really scared of?