A College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT) student’s attempt to have himself reinstated for a crucial examination for his degree has been dismissed in the Port-of-Spain High Court.
Justice Frank Seepersad ruled in favour of the tertiary institution, stating that Jamieyel Pantor, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Radiography, failed to provide enough of an argument to overturn the school’s decision.
Pantor, 33, of Princes Town, had claimed the school did not give sufficient reason to remove him from July’s Radiography External Review Examination.
The student said he was advised via email on June 29 by Dr Anthony Lalla, a week before the examination, that he would be barred from taking part of the exam after he failed another course, Radiation Services.
Pantor argued there was no indication that failing the course would debar him from the exam which took place from July 5 to July 23.
In his ruling, Seepersad pointed to the testimony of COSTATT president Dr Gillian Paul, which explained the school adjusted its policy based on previous student performance in the faculty.
He said, “The court having considered the evidence of Dr Paul on behalf of the respondent who noted that there existed a need for a comprehensive review in December 2017 based on the poor academic performance in the disciplines of nursing and allied health service including radiotherapy.”
Seepersad said based on this the school made a decision “primarily based on matters of academic judgment.”
He said, “A civil court exercising a public law function, is not equipped to deal with matters of academic judgment nor can this court articulate the way in which education is best advanced.”
Seepersad added, “The applicant cannot determine the manner in which he should be assessed by the institution and the claims advanced are devoid of merit.”
The ruling was made without any order concerning legal costs being dictated.