Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, the Hon. Lorna Smith, OBE, presented fifteen laptop computers to Ms. Akima Powell, principal of Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School (ROMPS), marking a significant contribution to the graduating class of 2024.

The laptops were donated by David and Pamela Johnson of Oil Nut Bay (ONB) through the North Sound Foundation (NSF), a symbol of their ongoing commitment to the educational advancement of the students at ROMPS.

This donation is the latest in a series of contributions by ONB, which has supported the school for over a decade. The partnership began with the rebuilding efforts led by NSF following the devastating impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused extensive damage to the school.

The donation is part of a sustained effort to enhance the educational environment at ROMPS, providing resources and facilities that ensure a conducive learning space. The new laptops are expected to play a crucial role in the students’ academic development, equipping them with the tools necessary for research and study as they transition to high school. This technological boost is seen as vital for preparing the students to meet future challenges.

Ms. Akima Powell, accepting the laptops on behalf of the school, assured Deputy Premier Honourable Lorna Smith that the devices would be presented to the students at their upcoming Exit Dinner on July 4th. This event marks a significant milestone in their educational journey and the laptops will undoubtedly serve as valuable assets in their continued academic pursuits.

Hon Lorna Smith, a fervent advocate for the welfare of children and youth, underscored the importance of digital access in modern education. In her role as Minister responsible for digital transformation, she highlighted the necessity for every household and child in the Virgin Islands to have access to computers and the internet. She stressed that such access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for effective learning and participation in a digitally connected world.

In her address, Hon. Lorna Smith extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School Class of 2024. She expressed her best wishes for their continued success as they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey, confident that these laptops will serve as invaluable tools in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

The Office of Gender Affairs hosted a comprehensive health fair on Virgin Gorda to address critical health issues affecting men.

This initiative marked the culmination of Men’s Health Week 2024, celebrated across the Virgin Islands from June 10 to 22 under the theme, “Men’s Health is our Wealth.”

Residents received complimentary screenings for diabetes, HIV, and general health checkups. Additionally, the event provided vital information on mental health topics such as depression and anxiety.

Patricia Hackett, Gender Affairs Coordinator, emphasized the importance of the event. “Hosting the health fair on Virgin Gorda was crucial to create awareness about prevalent health issues affecting men on the sister island,” she said. Hackett noted the event’s role in fostering a healthier and stronger community by offering essential health services and information.

The event saw significant participation from the community, with a notable presence of young men eager to learn about sexual health, HIV/AIDS, and mental health, as well as to undergo general health checkups. “It was gratifying to see men, especially young men, support the event. Participants were keen to learn about health issues and ensure their well-being,” Hackett remarked.

Many attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to take HIV/STI tests, committing to regular health checks. One participant highlighted the importance of knowing one’s health status and advocated for regular health checkups among young men on the sister islands.

The health fair featured booths from six organizations, including the BVI Diabetes Association, Red Cross-VG, MHSD-Public Health, and Five Doctors Medical and Wellness Centre. The Office of Gender Affairs provided information on alcohol use, the impact of health and violence on men’s mental health, and facts and myths about prostate health.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development reiterated its commitment to enhancing the health and social well-being of the Virgin Islands’ residents.