The University of the West Indies School of Clinical Medicine & Research, The Bahamas (UWI SCMR) inducted 20 new doctors into its Class of 2025 during a ceremony on June 23 at the Baha Mar Convention Center, affirming the country’s commitment to building a robust, homegrown healthcare workforce.
UWI SCMR celebrated an exceptional milestone with a 100% first-attempt pass rate in the final MBBS examinations, reflecting the strength of the academic program and the dedication of both faculty and students. Among the graduates, Dr. Aneka Minnis distinguished herself by receiving both the Dr. Anthony Regis Award for the highest performance in the final MBBS examinations and the Dr. Cecil M. Bethel Award for the most outstanding student from The Bahamas.
In her keynote address, Director Dr. Corrine Sin Quee-Brown reflected on UWI SCMR’s legacy, noting that since its establishment as a clinical training site in 1997, it has produced 720 new doctors—nearly all Bahamian. She credited government support for making it possible for students to train at home and highlighted the impact of 40 annual internship opportunities available across Nassau and Freeport.
“Our mission has always been to train competent, compassionate physicians right here in The Bahamas,” Dr. Sin Quee-Brown said. “As technology evolves, including artificial intelligence, it is vital that you see these tools as ways to augment your care—not replace the irreplaceable skills of listening, reasoning, and empathy. You have a responsibility to provide accurate information, because it is the foundation of both good patient care and the safe integration of new technologies.”
The ceremony also marked a significant leadership transition. Dr. Sin Quee-Brown, who will retire on July 31, 2025, announced that Dr. Sabriquet Pinder-Butler—a graduate of the local MBBS and Family Medicine programs—will succeed her as Director of UWI SCMR. Additionally, Dr. Dashawn Ferguson-Saunders, the first Bahamian to complete the Paediatrics specialist program, will step into the role of Lecturer in Paediatrics.
The presence of Professor Densil Williams, Principal of UWI Mona, reinforced the University of the West Indies’ commitment to the Bahamian site. Government officials, including Minister of Education and Technical & Vocational Training Glenys Hanna-Martin and Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Michael Darville, offered their congratulations and highlighted the importance of local medical training.
“Your dedication and hard work are an inspiration,” Hanna-Martin told the graduates. “You stand as an example to young Bahamians of what can be achieved through perseverance and excellence.”
Minister Darville emphasized the critical need for Bahamian doctors in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system. “The government is committed to supporting local medical education and ensuring that our doctors have the resources they need to provide world-class care,” he said. “You are the future of our healthcare system, and we are proud of each and every one of you.”
As UWI SCMR expands its programs and deepens partnerships with the Ministry of Health, the school remains steadfast in its mission: to prepare generations of skilled, compassionate physicians ready to serve the evolving needs of The Bahamas and ensure that world-class healthcare is within reach for all Bahamians.
Source: Felicity Darville
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