Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Education recently held a meeting with the newly elected executive of the National Principals Association (NPA), to address key issues within the island’s education sector.
The meeting brought together ministry officials and the new NPA leadership to discuss challenges affecting schools across Saint Lucia and explore potential solutions.
In a statement shared by the Ministry of Education, NPA Vice President Donna Peter-Joseph explained, “[the meeting] was essentially held to air the grievances of various principals around the island, what affects the schools individually, and what affects our schools holistically.”
Minister of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology, and Vocational Training, Shawn Edward, highlighted concerns about school security: “School security continues to be a very topical issue in the realm of education, and the president Mr. Neal Fontenelle raised a few concerns. I was very happy to report that the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Finance have given the Ministry of Education additional resources to bolster school security.”
Edward elaborated on ongoing security initiatives, including the installation of cameras on school premises and the introduction of additional measures. “For the very first time, we’re looking at the installation of alarm systems. We have completely reviewed the personnel we recruit as security officers in schools, and we are also assessing the overall school safety and security apparatus to ensure schools conduct drills and simulation exercises in the event of disasters, with the aim of minimising injuries and loss of life.”
The NPA expressed optimism following the dialogue, hopeful that the additional plans discussed will be implemented. The association remains committed to working collaboratively with national policymakers.
NPA President Neal Fontenelle emphasised the importance of partnership, saying, “As the Minister indicated, this is really a partnership between principals and the ministry’s hierarchy. So, moving forward … it’s very important that we maintain that sort of collaborative relationship.”
Minister Edward expressed his eagerness to continue working closely with school principals across Saint Lucia throughout the school year. He reaffirmed that engaging in dialogue with the NPA during each school term will remain a priority.
