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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Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, under guidance from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), has mandated the closure of all public schools across the British Virgin Islands today. This precautionary measure prioritises the safety of students, teachers, and staff amid predictions of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and cloudy spells expected to impact the region throughout the day.
In a statement addressed to parents and community members, the Ministry underscored the importance of safety given the unpredictable nature of the weather conditions. “Students and teachers are asked to remain at home,” Hoyles stated. “We encourage teachers to provide assignments through online platforms where feasible, though some areas may face disruptions due to power outages.”
The closure decision comes as the DDM anticipates potential hazards posed by the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, with risks to transportation and infrastructure. To mitigate these impacts, officials are urging residents to monitor updates closely and take all necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
The DDM and Ministry officials will continue to assess the weather conditions throughout the day. Parents and guardians are advised to keep updated through official government communications. For any inquiries, the Ministry can be reached at (284) 468-2151 or via their website at www.bvi.gov.vg.
The winners of the annual Primary and Secondary Schools Anti-Bullying Speech Competition were celebrated during an awards ceremony held on Wednesday, October 16, at Elmore Stoutt High School. The competition, which aims to raise awareness and promote positive actions against bullying, saw impressive speeches from students across the Territory.
In the primary school division, Amiah Chang of Claudia Creque Educational Centre Primary claimed the top prize, with John Claude Vergara from St. George’s Primary School finishing in second place. Marla-Monae Gray of Jost Van Dyke Primary School earned third place.
In the secondary school category, Yasmeen Said of St. George’s Secondary Division won first place. Carey-Ann McKie from Bregado Flax Educational Centre came in second, while Adrianne Thomas from Elmore Stoutt High School placed third.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports congratulated all participants, highlighting their contributions to the Territory’s anti-bullying campaign. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive educational environment, and thanked the students for their efforts in spreading awareness about the importance of eliminating bullying in schools.
This initiative aligns with the ministry’s broader goal to reimagine education in the Virgin Islands, creating safe spaces where students can thrive both academically and socially.
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