The Ministry of Education in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is set to embark on a carefully planned, phased reopening of schools, with safety and resilience at the forefront. Permanent Secretary Mycle Burke, speaking with the Agency for Public Information (API), unveiled the Ministry’s detailed roadmap, crafted in response to the varied readiness levels of the nation’s educational institutions.
The reopening, scheduled over three phases, reflects the Ministry’s commitment to balancing urgency with caution:
- Phase 1 – September 2, 2024: Schools with minimal structural damage, primarily primary and secondary institutions, will be the first to open their doors.
- Phase 2 – September 9, 2024: Institutions requiring more substantial repairs will follow suit, ensuring that all necessary work is completed before students return.
- Phase 3 – September 16, 2024: The final phase will see the reopening of schools that suffered the most significant damage, allowing extra time for critical repairs and safety checks.
The phased approach comes after extensive consultations with school principals, key stakeholders, and the Cabinet, underscoring a collaborative effort to ensure the nation’s students can resume their education in secure environments.
In response to ongoing public health concerns, including dengue fever, COVID-19, and monkeypox, the Ministry has partnered with the Ministry of Health to implement rigorous safety measures. These include widespread fumigation, thorough sanitization, and the distribution of protective clothing to students, ensuring a comprehensive defense against potential health threats.
Recognizing the profound impact of Hurricane Beryl, the Ministry is also prioritizing the emotional and psychological well-being of students and educators. Essential psychosocial support services have been established to aid in their recovery, acknowledging that the trauma of natural disasters extends far beyond physical damage.
Burke affirmed the Ministry’s unwavering dedication to providing quality education in a safe and supportive environment, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating the dual challenges of natural disasters and health crises. As the country prepares to reopen its schools, the Ministry’s strategy stands as a testament to its commitment to safeguarding the future of its students.