USM Students Experience Democracy in Action at Parliament
November 12, 2026
USM students took learning beyond the classroom during an educational visit to Parliament, where they explored the legislative process and observed part of the national budget debate.
Students from the University of St. Martin’s Caribbean Foundation Year, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and BTEC Business Management programs recently visited the Parliament of Sint Maarten for an educational experience that brought government and civic responsibility to life.
The students were welcomed by Secretary-General of Parliament Garrick J. Richardson and Rosencio Hassell PR Officer who provided an informative presentation on the structure and responsibilities of Parliament.
During the presentation, students learned about the role of Members of Parliament, the responsibilities of the parliamentary secretariat and the procedures followed during public meetings. SG Richardson also explained how Parliament prepares for meetings, supports informed debate and ensures that the work of the legislative branch continues effectively.
The visit gave students an opportunity to better understand how decisions affecting the people of St. Maarten move through the parliamentary process. It also allowed them to connect subjects discussed in the classroom with the institutions and individuals responsible for shaping national policy.
A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to sit in the public tribune and observe part of the national budget debate. From the tribune, the students witnessed USM Alumna Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs responding to questions and explaining matters related to the country’s finances and policy priorities.
For many of the students, this was their first opportunity to observe a parliamentary meeting from inside the chamber. Seeing elected representatives debate national matters demonstrated that governance involves preparation, questioning, accountability and the careful consideration of competing needs.
The experience also prepared the CFY students for a follow-up discussion with Minister Gumbs at USM the following day. Having first observed the Minister during the budget debate, the students arrived at the campus session with greater awareness and stronger questions about the issues affecting their country.
The visit formed part of USM’s commitment to experiential education. Students benefit when learning moves beyond textbooks and classrooms and gives them direct exposure to the institutions, careers and responsibilities that shape their community.
Through experiences such as this, students can develop a stronger understanding of citizenship while recognizing that they also have a voice in the future of St. Maarten. The visit encouraged them to remain informed, ask meaningful questions and consider how their education can prepare them to contribute to the island.
USM extends its appreciation to Secretary-General Garrick J. Richardson, Rosencio Hassell, Brenda Maynard, and the Parliament of Sint Maarten for welcoming the students and providing them with an informative and engaging experience.
The university looks forward to creating additional opportunities that connect academic learning with the social, economic and political realities of St. Maarten.
Latest News →
The students were welcomed by Secretary-General of Parliament Garrick J. Richardson and Rosencio Hassell PR Officer who provided an informative presentation on the structure and responsibilities of Parliament.
During the presentation, students learned about the role of Members of Parliament, the responsibilities of the parliamentary secretariat and the procedures followed during public meetings. SG Richardson also explained how Parliament prepares for meetings, supports informed debate and ensures that the work of the legislative branch continues effectively.
The visit gave students an opportunity to better understand how decisions affecting the people of St. Maarten move through the parliamentary process. It also allowed them to connect subjects discussed in the classroom with the institutions and individuals responsible for shaping national policy.
A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to sit in the public tribune and observe part of the national budget debate. From the tribune, the students witnessed USM Alumna Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs responding to questions and explaining matters related to the country’s finances and policy priorities.
For many of the students, this was their first opportunity to observe a parliamentary meeting from inside the chamber. Seeing elected representatives debate national matters demonstrated that governance involves preparation, questioning, accountability and the careful consideration of competing needs.
The experience also prepared the CFY students for a follow-up discussion with Minister Gumbs at USM the following day. Having first observed the Minister during the budget debate, the students arrived at the campus session with greater awareness and stronger questions about the issues affecting their country.
The visit formed part of USM’s commitment to experiential education. Students benefit when learning moves beyond textbooks and classrooms and gives them direct exposure to the institutions, careers and responsibilities that shape their community.
Through experiences such as this, students can develop a stronger understanding of citizenship while recognizing that they also have a voice in the future of St. Maarten. The visit encouraged them to remain informed, ask meaningful questions and consider how their education can prepare them to contribute to the island.
USM extends its appreciation to Secretary-General Garrick J. Richardson, Rosencio Hassell, Brenda Maynard, and the Parliament of Sint Maarten for welcoming the students and providing them with an informative and engaging experience.
The university looks forward to creating additional opportunities that connect academic learning with the social, economic and political realities of St. Maarten.
Latest News →
