Education
Concerned Teachers Highlight Salary Disparity, Intimidation and Infrastructure Issues in Education System
A group of concerned teachers, independent of the Teachers Union, has come forward to express their deep concerns over reports that teachers have allegedly been threatened and coerced into refraining from participating in protests regarding various issues, including salary disparity.
In a statement sent to the media today, September 22 the independent group said “the issues affecting teachers are multifaceted, with one major concern being the disparity in salaries. Some teachers have chosen to leave their positions due to inadequate pay, resulting in a situation where newly recruited teachers are offered higher salaries than those who have been in the system for years, despite having similar qualifications. This wage discrepancy can create frustration and demotivation among experienced teachers who feel undervalued for their years of service.”
Last week teachers staged a sit-in protest at the Elmore Stoutt High School in Road Town, Tortola, to draw attention to the long-standing issues, including poorly ventilated classrooms, overgrown pathways, frequent electrical and water disruptions, that have been ignored within the education system.
Premier Natalio Wheatley visited the school and engaged in a dialogue with the teachers, assuring them that the government is committed to addressing the problems that have been raised. The problems were also officially reported to the Ministry of Education in a letter sent by the Teachers Union.
In the wake of the protest, concerns have emerged regarding alleged threats being made against teachers to dissuade them from participating in any future protest actions.
“There seems to be a concerning trend of intimidation towards both cabinet members and the newly hired teachers. It has been discovered that these individuals are being threatened to refrain from participating in any form of protest or expressing solidarity with the teachers. This kind of coercion can stifle freedom of expression and prevent individuals from advocating for their rights.”
The concerned teachers stressed that the issues raised during the protest not only affect the overall learning environment, but also impact the well-being and safety of both teachers and students. Yet, there has been no action from the government leading to further frustration among teachers.
“Overall, the combination of salary discrepancies, intimidation, lack of government response, delays in resource distribution, and infrastructure issues creates a challenging and demoralising situation for teachers. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure the well-being and effectiveness of the education system and to retain experienced and qualified teachers within the profession,” the statement said.
Additionally, the group has highlighted that “this lack of communication and acknowledgement from the government can further exacerbate the frustrations of the teachers and hinder the resolution of these problems. Moreover, there have been delays in the distribution of fans that were intended for the school. Despite being sent on Tuesday, the fans were not distributed until today, Friday, September 22. This delay can contribute to discomfort in the school environment, especially during hot weather conditions, and may affect both teachers and students.”
“Additionally, the new building where the teachers are working is experiencing water issues and electrical problems. These infrastructure challenges can disrupt the normal functioning of the school and create an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for both teachers and students.”
The concerned teachers have urged the government to engage in open dialogue and take proactive steps to resolve these issues, as they are vital to the success of the education system and the overall development of the nation.
“Overall, the combination of salary discrepancies, intimidation, lack of government response, delays in resource distribution, and infrastructure issues creates a challenging and demoralising situation for teachers. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure the well-being and effectiveness of the education system and to retain experienced and qualified teachers within the profession,” the statement concluded.
Education
BVIslander J’Sally O’Niel Called to Practice as Member of the BVI Bar
BVIslander J’Sally O’Niel was officially called to practice as a member of the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Territory of the Virgin Islands on Monday, January 13. The ceremony, held before the Honourable Justice Stanley John K.C., saw J’Sally presented to the court by Associate Aaron Mayers.
J’Sally, who began her pupillage at Conyers’ BVI office in September 2024, has quickly gained recognition for her professionalism. Mark Forte, Partner and Head of BVI Litigation & Restructuring at Conyers, commended her work ethic, noting, “J’Sally has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, and we look forward to seeing her thrive in her legal career.”
J’Sally earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and was called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn in October 2024.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
Education
Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation Champions Education with Book Donation
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