The government has begun a bold push to thoroughly rehabilitate the island’s school infrastruc-ture, assuring its climate resilience and compliance.
Five schools have been designated for the first phase of this vital project, as Saint Lucia moves on with its commitment to climate resilience and enhanced accessibility in educational institu-tion building and upgrades.
The new components will feature upgraded constructions that match international requirements.
During a recent tour of these institutions, Hubert Hart, Director of the Ministry of Education’s Department of Works, Plant, and Equipment, expressed great support for the speed and efficien-cy of the ongoing work.
Hart verified that the tender and awards process was completed in December, allowing for a smooth transition into the new year. The foundation has been completed, and most institutions have progressed to the first level, with the exception of Entrepôt Secondary School, which re-quires more substantial construction.
Construction at Grand Riviere Secondary, Plaine View Combined, and Pierrot Combined Schools is scheduled to be completed by November.
Shawn Edward, Education Minister, reaffirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to providing all children with safe and supportive learning facilities that are climate resilient and energy efficient.
“This is an integral part of the ministry’s program to rehabilitate school infrastructure,” Minister Edward stated.
He stated that Prime Minister Philip J Pierre had acquired about USD 6 million from the AFRI-EXIM Bank exclusively for school reconstruction in the country.
“Many existing structures were severely dilapidated and failed to offer the necessary comfort for effective learning, so I take pride in the high quality of work being executed,” he said.
The Ministry of Education is estimated to receive around 14% of the national budget. Minister Edward explained that this initiative’s construction efforts will include four key projects: a new block at the former Grand Riviere Secondary School, Pierrot Combined School, Plain View Combined School, and Entrepôt Secondary School.
The preliminary budget for these essential school building construction projects is included in the Estimates of Expenditure.
Earlier this year, the Saint Lucian youth group Climate and Health Action for the Rising Gener-ation (CHARGE) organized a national project on climate change and health action, involving 108 students (55 males and 53 females) and 51 teachers from 50 primary schools.
CHARGE is associated with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Climate Change and Health Leaders Fellowship Training Program, which is part of the European Un-ion/CARIFORUM Strengthening Climate Resilient Health Systems in the Caribbean initiative, which is overseen by the Pan American Health Organization.
The campaign was titled “Promoting Climate Change and Health Awareness in Primary Schools in Saint Lucia: Act Now for a More Sustainable and Resilient Future.” It reached all eight school districts on the island.
“The program is designed to be a dynamic and interactive learning experience that highlights the importance of personal health, the environment, and their relationship, along with the im-pacts of climate change on health and community well-being,” stated President Kezia Brice-Isidore. “We focus on exercise and healthy diets, as well as implementing the three Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—and planting to promote sustainability.”
She stated, “Through this initiative, we are equipping students with knowledge and practical tools while empowering them to take ownership of their learning and environment. By blending education with creativity and active engagement, we aim to inspire a generation of problem solvers who are aware, responsible, and ready to lead.”