Virgin Islands Schools Receive Boost from Private
The Virgin Islands Government has relaunched its Adopt-A-School initiative as 'Partners for Progress in Education,' aiming to streamline contributions from businesses towards local education. This move follows the territory's inaugural donations policy, enhancing support for school projects with resources from notable entities including Unite BVI, Walkers, and Exness.
In a significant push towards enhancing educational infrastructure and opportunities in the Virgin Islands, the government has revamped its Adopt-A-School programme, now known as 'Partners for Progress in Education.' This programme seeks to cement partnerships between the public sector and private enterprises to facilitate donations and in-kind contributions to schools across the territory.
During a recent episode of 'Virgin Islands Voice' on September 10, Education Minister Sharie B. de Castro, alongside Acting Permanent Secretary Claude Kettle and Chief Education Officer Orlandette R. Crabbe, unveiled the initiative, which is supported by the territory's first donations policy passed in 2024.
The policy outlines a structured approach for businesses to select and contribute to educational projects, fostering a transparent and efficient collaboration system. Ms. de Castro highlighted an increase in community engagement following the policy's introduction, with more entities coming forward to support the territory's educational needs through in-kind donations.
This collaborative effort has already seen contributions towards structural assessments, construction of playgrounds, basketball courts, and the provision of resources for the new Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre and robotics equipment, thanks to partners like Unite BVI, law firm Walkers, and financial services company Exness.
The programme's impact extends beyond infrastructure improvements, with Exness funding a full scholarship for an Elmore Stoutt High School graduate to pursue an associate degree at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, following his participation in the school's robotics program. The ministry's successful collaboration with these partners has enabled significant advancements in school facilities, including roof repairs, plumbing upgrades, electrical works, and new security installations, accomplished over the summer through allocated budgets and private contributions.
As the 2025–26 school year progresses, the Ministry of Education anticipates more companies will join the initiative, further enriching the territory's educational landscape. This programme not only exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships but also marks a pivotal step towards reimagining and advancing education in the Virgin Islands through community involvement and support.
Primary source: JTV