Jamaican Students Heading to Poland for Sanctuary

As the Russian invasion continues and casualties increase, some Jamaican students stuck in Ukraine are growing frustrated with the Jamaican Government as they say there’s been a lack of communication and practical solutions since the attack. CVM Live confirmed, at least five students are making their way to the Poland border, however they’re lamenting uncertainty about what will happen when they arrive. 

They’re pleading with the government to make arrangements for them to be received into Poland when they finally make it to the border. The over five students who found shelter in an underground bunker in Kharkiv, Ukraine on Thursday, February 24, due to explosions and rapid gunfire have now been able to evacuate that metro station. They are heading to the Poland border for sanctuary.

However, they’re doing so with much uncertainty as they’re worried they will not be permitted to enter the country. In fact, fear is intensifying after Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed a rule prohibiting males between 18 and 60 from leaving.  However, CVM Live understands this is specific to Ukrainian citizens. Meanwhile, the Jamaican students are pleading with the Jamaican Government to make arrangements for them to be received at the Poland border. 

The student says it is difficult finding transportation to get to the border, especially since hundreds of people are also heading there. She’s lashing out against what she calls poor communication and selfishness by the government throughout the crisis.  Speaking with CVM Live on Friday, Information Minister Robert Morgan responds to these concerns, assuring that border police have been advised of the students pending arrival hence they should have no issues entering Poland. 

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Mark Golding says his party has established a USD 10,000 fund to assist students with transportation, food and other necessities.