Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro has said the new school year is a continuation of an incredible journey of moving Virgin Islands Education: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead.

Honourable de Castro while addressing the Third Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly said the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) course aims to prepare students for the professions of the future by fostering creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of modern technologies.

The Minister added that throughout the course, students will engage in critical thinking exercises and projects that encourage them to analyze complex problems, think creatively, and make informed decisions.

Honourable de Castro said, “In an increasingly digital world, students will develop the skills and competencies that will foster digital literacy, by learning about online safety, data privacy, and responsible technology use. These skills are essential for navigating the digital landscape and are applicable in various professions.”

The Minister for Education added that by offering this comprehensive programme, students will be better equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, thereby ensuring a bright and prosperous future for themselves and by extension for the Territory.

Honourable de Castro said that the Ministry of Education is preparing for the successful implementation of the course and hosted more than 500 educators from public and private schools at the ministry’s ‘Educators Professional Day 2023’ . She added that educators were also engaged in multiple training sessions at the Elmore Stoutt High School.   

“As the 2023-2024 school year commenced, during the week of Summer Institute, several training sessions were conducted focusing on Curriculum and Pedagogy, S.T.E.A.M., A.I. and Robotics in Education, Multi-grade Teaching, Professional Conduct, Health and Wellness, Personal Finances, Psychosocial Health and Special Education,” Honourable de Castro said.

Secondary students also participated in a Robotics Workshop as part of activities to begin the academic school year. The workshop allowed students to get a glimpse of the innovation that will unfold in their upcoming S.T.E.A.M. Innovations Class.

Meanwhile, Acting Chief Education Officer (ACEO), Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe said the opening of the 2023-2024 academic year is a journey that requires everyone to reimagine education through the lens of the S.T.E.A.M. course.

Mrs. Crabbe said, “Moving Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead signifies our dedication to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, which in turn is an interdisciplinary approach that cultivates holistic growth and equips us for the challenges and opportunities of the future.”        

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports remains committed to providing high-quality educational services and promoting access to sports and recreation to enrich the lives of the residents of the Virgin Islands.

Photo Credits: (GIS/Ronielle Frazer, Franklin Skerritt and Giovanni Herbert)