Education

Ministry of Education Expresses Concern Over Lack of Prior Notice for Industrial Action

Published

3 years ago

September 28, 2023

Editor

– 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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Education

New HLSCC Dorm Project Aims to Improve Access for Outer Island Students

Published

1 week ago

April 14, 2026

Editor

The Government of the Virgin Islands has signed agreements to begin the design phase for student dormitories at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, a project aimed at expanding access to higher education for students across the territory.

The Memorandum of Understanding and Deed of Contribution, signed on Tuesday, April 14, between the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and the Recovery and Development Agency, mark the start of work toward developing on-campus housing at the Paraquita Bay campus.

Officials said the dormitories are expected to address longstanding challenges faced by students from Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda, who often encounter higher costs and logistical difficulties due to travel and accommodation limitations.

“For many years, students from Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda have faced additional hurdles simply because of geography,” Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley said. “With the construction of these dormitories, we will remove one of the most persistent barriers to higher education for our own people.”

The project is intended to make it easier for students throughout the Virgin Islands to pursue tertiary and post-secondary education locally, reducing the need to relocate or manage extended commutes.

Officials said the development has long been part of the college’s master plan and represents a step toward strengthening the territory’s education system.

The dormitories are also expected to accommodate students from outside the territory, supporting broader efforts to expand educational opportunities and diversify the economy.

The Recovery and Development Agency is overseeing the project, with the design phase to be followed by construction.

Education

Students Honored for Water Science Projects at BVI National Science Fair

Published

3 weeks ago

April 1, 2026

Editor

Zac Richards and Zendée Menal of Cedar International School and Daundre Rhodes of Bregado Flax Educational Centre were recognized by Seven Seas Water Group with the Prize for Water Science at the 2026 National Science Fair closing ceremony on March 20.

The award, presented in observance of World Water Day, highlights student research addressing water-related challenges under the theme “Innovate with Purpose, Create with Care, Solve for Tomorrow.”

Richards and Menal won the secondary division for their project, “Comparative Analysis of Water Quality in the BVI,” which examined physical and chemical parameters at three coastal locations. The study provides baseline data that can inform efforts to develop a national marine water quality framework, with implications for public health and marine ecosystems.

Rhodes received the primary division award for “Bubble Tubing: A Natural Solution to Sargassum in the Virgin Islands.” The project proposed a method to repel sargassum from desalination intake areas, aiming to reduce the effects of decomposition on water taste and odor.

On March 27, Richards and Menal visited the Paraquita Bay Water Plant, where they received their awards and toured desalination operations. Kevon Smith, the plant manager and a former National Science Fair winner, guided the students through processes including cartridge filtration, membrane technology and reverse osmosis.

Noni M. Georges, community relations advisor at Seven Seas Water BVI, said the students’ work demonstrated both scientific rigor and engagement with local challenges. “Seven Seas Water BVI is honored to celebrate and support their achievements,” she said.

Smith said the projects reflected ideas relevant to the territory’s water management. “These are not just projects — they are the kinds of ideas that can shape how we manage and protect our water resources,” he said.

Seven Seas Water Group also acknowledged the Ministry of Education, Science Fair Coordinator Renee Caines, participating students, teachers, schools and parents for organizing the event.

Education

Roman Nibbs Alberto Wins Premier for a Week Competition

Published

4 weeks ago

March 27, 2026

Editor

Roman Nibbs Alberto, 17, a 12th grade student at Elmore Stoutt High School, has been selected as Premier for a Week, the Office of the Premier announced.

Mr. Nibbs Alberto will be sworn in by Governor Daniel Pruce on April 7 and will serve in the role for one week, during which he is expected to carry out official duties and work alongside Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley.

In remarks following his selection, Mr. Nibbs Alberto said, “I’m thankful that I won the election. I want to thank the organisers of this free and fair election. I want to thank my worthy competitors and I want to thank everybody that voted and campaigned for me.”

The Office of the Premier said the program provides participants with the opportunity to engage in leadership and governance activities.

Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley said he looks forward to working with the incoming Premier and intends to extend his congratulations.

The Office of the Premier also acknowledged the other participants in the program, including Niaeika Aymer, Trishelle Phillips, Rudell Stoute and Zhane Walters.

Final results showed Mr. Nibbs Alberto receiving 905 points, followed by Ms. Aymer with 804 points, Ms. Phillips with 605 points, Mr. Stoute with 551 points and Ms. Walters with 611 points.