Education
Ministry of Education Expresses Concern Over Lack of Prior Notice for Industrial Action
– Vows to Address Teacher Concerns and Ensure Student Safety
In response to the recent industrial action taken by teachers at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS), the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, Hon. Sharie B. de Castro along with the Acting Permanent Secretary Claude Kettle and the Acting Chief Education Officer Orlandette Crabbe, met with the administration and staff of ESHS on Tuesday, September 26, to discuss the issues at hand.
The Ministry acknowledged that there was a significant communication gap, which hindered their ability to fully understand and address the concerns of the teachers. They emphasised the importance of open and constructive dialogue as the primary means to address concerns and improve the educational system.
The Education team also highlighted the need for any industrial action to be considered through a structured and responsible process, in accordance with internationally recognized standards outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The Ministry stated that they did not receive prior notice of the grievances or the planned industrial action, which took place on September 15. As a result, they were unable to take corrective action or ensure the safety and well-being of the students during that time. However, the Ministry remains committed to addressing the concerns of the teachers while maintaining order and safety within educational institutions.
In response to the specific concerns raised by the teachers, the Ministry outlined several steps they have taken. Efforts to improve the school compound and facilities have included grass cutting, utilising available classrooms and tents for lunch seating with supervision, and ongoing recruitment for a vacant janitorial position. Immediate action has also been taken to address extreme heat with fan procurement, and the maintenance of the air conditioning system is in progress. Mold assessments, electrical voltage and socket issues have been reported to the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), and efforts to enhance internet connectivity are underway.
The Ministry is also focused on timely curriculum resource procurement, addressing adequate space for staff, and prioritising teachers in the salary review process.
The meeting concluded with an agreement by the majority of teachers not to engage in any future industrial action without first giving notice and allowing the Ministry a reasonable opportunity to address concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of the students.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to resolving all outstanding issues collaboratively and fostering effective communication with all stakeholders. They encouraged open and honest dialogue in the coming days and pledged to maintain consistent communication channels to address concerns promptly. The Ministry remains dedicated to providing a safe, conducive, and well-resourced learning environment for students and teachers at Elmore Stoutt High School.
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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.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
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