Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro said that the construction of the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre, would be a project with immense promise for the future of the Virgin Islands, reflective of a history of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment.

“Today, we gather with renewed determination and enthusiasm as we embark on a journey to rebuild the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre,” said Honourable de Castro.

The Education Minister added, “The new school will provide an education that is inclusive, empowering, and aligned with our Territory’s mandate to educate all children.  Education is a universal right and we firmly believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, or disability deserves an education that is tailored to their individual needs.”

The contract signed by the Recovery and Development Agency on 25^th August on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands was awarded to Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd. in the amount of three million, nine hundred and fifty-nine thousand, six hundred and ninety dollars and fifteen cents (3,959,690.15).

Chairman of the Fundraising Sub-Committee of the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) Mr. Shea Alexander said that the signing is for an incredible project, from an incredible organisation for incredible work.

He said, “I am really grateful that the Government has made themselves a fitting partner for us and has allowed us to act as their agent and their tool, delivering projects at the highest calibre throughout this Territory.”

Meanwhile, General Manager for Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd. Mr. Dion Crabbe, said that the project was one of Virgin Islands pride with this project being first in the region from inception.

“The BVI had the initiative to look and see some of the needs that we have had, and actually create something for special needs, which speaks volumes,” Mr. Crabbe said.

The Recovery and Development Agency works closely with Government ministries to fulfil their priorities as laid out in the Virgin Islands Recovery to Development Plan.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, remains committed to providing high-quality education, as well as facilitating access to, and participation in sports and recreation to enrich the lives of all residents of the Virgin Islands.

Note to Editors: Two Images 

1. Contract Signing LtoR: Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley; Minister for Education, Hon. Sharie B. de Castro; Chairman of the Fundraising Sub-Committee RDA, Mr. Shea Alexander; Managing Director Mr. Autley Crabbe, and General Mananger Mr. Dion Crabbe, Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd.   
2. GroundBreaking LtoR: Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley; Minister for Works, Hon. Kye M. Rymer; Managing Director Mr. Autley Crabbe, Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd.; Minister for Education, Hon. Sharie B. de Castro; Chairman of the Fundraising Sub-Committee RDA, Mr. Shea Alexander; Ms and Mr. Eslyn Henley Richiez; Principal Eslyn Henley Richiez, Mrs. Madgalene Allister and Past Principal Mrs. Vansittart Huggins.