The Government of the Virgin Islands has expanded its Adopt-A-School programme, now branded Partners for Progress in Education, to formalise private sector donations and in-kind contributions across the territory’s schools.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Sharie B. de Castro, joined by Acting Permanent Secretary Claude Kettle and Chief Education Officer, Orlandette R. Crabbe, told viewers of Virgin Islands Voice on Sept. 10 that the initiative follows the passage of the territory’s first donations policy in 2024, providing a framework for how businesses select projects and contribute resources.
“We’ve seen a significant uptick in persons coming forward, asking us about our needs and thereby supporting through in-kind donations,” Ms. de Castro said. “The donations policy creates a transparent mechanism by which the private sector can help us reimagine education in the territory.”
The programme is part of a broader partnership model that includes a memorandum of understanding with Unite BVI, which has funded structural assessments across schools and provided resources for projects such as playgrounds and basketball courts. Additional support has come from law firm Walkers, which contributed to resources for the new Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre, and financial services company Exness, which underwrote robotics equipment and a student scholarship.
Mr. Kettle said that upfront budget allocations for 2025, combined with private contributions, allowed the ministry to complete roof repairs, plumbing upgrades, electrical works, and new security installations over the summer. Contractors were engaged across multiple campuses on short deadlines, he added.
Exness’s support has also extended beyond equipment. Ms. de Castro said the firm provided a full scholarship for a recent Elmore Stoutt High School graduate pursuing an associate degree at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College after his involvement in the school’s robotics programme.
The ministry said it expects more companies to join the Adopt-A-School programme as the 2025–26 school year progresses.
