UB Board of Trustees Expresses Disappointment Over GoB’s Decision on University Hospital Location

In a letter dated August 19, 2024, the Chairman of the University of Belize (UB) Board of Trustees, Godfrey Smith, addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed University Hospital’s location. The letter reflects concerns raised during a Board meeting held on March 26, 2024, where the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) suggested relocating the hospital to a site other than UB’s lands.

According to Smith, the MOHW presented several reasons for its preference to build the hospital on alternative land. The Ministry indicated that discussions were already underway with the Ministry of Natural Resources to secure a location that would better meet their requirements for access and infrastructure.

The proposal sparked a heated debate among the Board members, with many trustees, including Smith, strongly advocating for the hospital to be built on UB’s land. Despite the Board’s united stance, the ultimate decision rested with the MOHW and the Government of Belize.

Smith noted that since the meeting, Prime Minister John Briceño and other government officials have publicly confirmed that the Cabinet has decided to proceed with the MOHW’s recommendation. The chosen site for the hospital will be on land purchased by the government from private interests, a decision that has left the UB Board expressing its disappointment.

While Smith acknowledged the Board’s strong feelings on the matter, he emphasised that it is not within the Board’s remit to hold the government accountable for this decision or to scrutinise the implications of the government’s actions. He suggested that such responsibilities lie with the media, civil society organisations, and the people of Belize.

Smith concluded by reaffirming the Board’s commitment to having the university hospital built on UB’s land. He also expressed openness to a proposal that the government gift the purchased land to UB should it maintain its decision to build the hospital elsewhere. This issue is expected to be a key agenda item at the upcoming Board of Trustees meeting scheduled for September 11, 2024.