While the Ministry of Education is still unable to provide a date for the completion of the Elmore Stoutt High School Redevelopment Project, Education Minister Sharie De Castro has confirmed that the project was 90 percent completed at the end of October.
“As at the date of this statement construction stands at 90 percent of substantial completion. I wish to thank the contractors, Quality Construction, Metro Construction, Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd. and the joint venture of Sunleaf Construction and Northam Construction for the stellar job they have performed to advance the buildings to this stage and within an unprecedented short timeline”, she said.
De Castro noted the project has faced a significant number of delays, including supply chain issues, adverse weather conditions, shipping errors and goods being damaged during the shipping process.
This affected critical goods such as windows, doors, paint and floor stains. As a result, she said contractors have adapted and are working with a new timeline to reflect the time lost.
“Our focus is now on the completion of the building. With all of the required windows, doors, lighting, paint, and stains are on island, the contractors are working diligently towards final completion. Thereafter, furniture and equipment comprising of the teacher, office and computer desks, storage units, photocopiers, microwaves, and electrical appliances are expected to be delivered to the site. Lastly, forty-two Promethean boards and three folding beds for the infirmary are expected to arrive no later than November 18th, 2022”, the Minister explained.
Despite being delayed in some areas, De Castro says that the site has not been idle. She noted that in the interim, the contractor has proceeded to execute auxiliary works, including the completion of sidewalks, parking lots and drainage, as well as establishing main sewerage, water and electrical connections.
Once completed, the new facility will feature four reinforced concrete buildings which will comprise as follows:
- Block A: A two-story Technical Block which will be home to auto-mechanics, food and nutrition, clothing and textiles, electronics, woodwork, the metal shop, a bakery lab, culinary lab and a bar and restaurant training lab.
- Block B1 & B2: Two three-story Classroom Blocks with a total of 30 classrooms plus adjoining restroom facilities at each level, and a connecting staircase.
- BLOCK C: A one-story Administrative Block which hosts the reception area, the principal’s office, front office, counsellor’s office, the infirmary, staff lounge, staff restrooms, janitor closet and storage area.
The campus will cover a total of 24,904 square feet once completed.
De Castro has promised continued updates of a date for the official opening ceremony of the facility which is expected in due time.
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