Private Sector Should Match Music Funding
Education Minister Sharie deCastro has called on businesses and residents to match the government's increased investment in music education as part of Education Month 2026. The ministry has boosted overall education spending from $57 million in 2024 to $77 million in 2026 and is seeking private support to rebuild programmes hit by hurricane damage.
Education Minister Sharie deCastro urged the private sector to match government support for music education during the launch of Education Month 2026, saying national development requires broad community backing. Education Month runs throughout March under the theme "Strong Foundations for a Future-Focused Generation" and includes academic, cultural and community activities across the territory.
DeCastro highlighted a recent increase in government education spending from $57 million in 2024 to $77 million in 2026, calling it "35% growth in just two budget cycles." Within that expanded allocation, the ministry provided $100,000 for music equipment last year and has budgeted $125,000 for music this year as it works to restore programs damaged by recent hurricanes. "What I'm saying is I would love the private sector to come forward and match government's funding.
I don't believe that's too much to ask," the minister said, stressing that education should not rest solely on public funds. "Education is the responsibility of the entire territory, and the community has a role to play in that." DeCastro pointed to the destruction of the former music department at Elmore Stoutt High School, which resulted in lost instruments and setbacks to instruction.
To rebuild and strengthen music education, the ministry has partnered with the United Jazz Foundation, led by Virgin Islands musician Dion Parsons, to provide professional development for teachers, expanded access to instruments and regional exposure for students. "What we have seen is a reinvigoration of music education in the Virgin Islands," DeCastro said, adding that training and performance opportunities help build discipline and open career pathways for young people.
She noted that the initiative goes beyond supplying instruments to include skills development that can lead to scholarships, employment and cultural opportunities. So far the campaign has raised more than $40,000, DeCastro disclosed, and she emphasized that government funding will continue regardless of private contributions: "The government will not stop.
We will continue to invest." She appealed directly to businesses and residents, saying small donations matter: "If it's $10, if it's $100, if it's $1,000, it will help a child. It ain't for Sharie… It's about the students and the children who have a dream that we must bring to reality." For BVI residents, renewed investment in music education promises benefits beyond classrooms — strengthening community ties, supporting youth development and nurturing cultural assets that contribute to the territory's identity and economy.
The ministry and its partners will outline ways to contribute and get involved during Education Month events.
Primary source: BVI News