As the Territory gears up for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, a series of comprehensive remedial works on public schools is underway across the territory.
Honourable Sharie B. de Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, announced that a proactive initiative has been launched to address long-standing maintenance issues within the school infrastructure.
Minister de Castro emphasized the need for repairs during a recent tour of public schools, recognizing that these facilities have faced maintenance challenges for quite some time. In response, the Ministry is executing an ambitious schedule of maintenance and rehabilitation projects throughout the summer months, aiming to tackle a range of critical issues.
Acting Deputy Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Claude Kettle, outlined the key focus areas of the remedial efforts. These include addressing matters including mould remediation, electrical, and plumbing works. The comprehensive approach is geared toward enhancing the overall safety, functionality, and aesthetics of the school environment.
The initial project involved the replacement of the roof at the Claudia Creque Educational Centre in Anegada. This undertaking was successfully completed by Mr Cecil Penn Construction Limited by July 31.
The ministry has concurrently launched multiple projects to ensure the readiness of other school facilities.
The Alexandrina Maduro Primary School is undergoing water-tightening efforts through a contract awarded to Garner Abraham Construction via the government’s procurement process.
The Leonora Delville Primary School is undergoing remedial works, upgrades, and painting overseen by the ministry’s maintenance team.
The Joyce Samuel Primary School is experiencing restroom facility upgrades, door and window replacements, and other critical works facilitated by ABSTR Construction.
Meanwhile, The Willard Wheatley Primary School is scheduled for roof repairs, electrical upgrades, restroom improvements, and other remedial efforts ahead of the upcoming term.
Mr Kettle highlighted that additional projects are in the pipeline, including roof repairs, electrical upgrades, and other works at the Enid Scatliffe Pre-Primary School. Bids are being reviewed for these tasks, indicating the continued commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of educational spaces.
Moreover, the private sector has also shown dedication to supporting educational enhancements. Unite BVI has generously donated toward the installation of a playground and basketball court at the Francis Lettsome Primary School. The North Sound Fund has undertaken projects to resurface the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School courtyard, install playgrounds at multiple schools, and facilitate other essential remedial works.