Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie has said that his Government is conducting research towards the introduction of full Bachelors and Masters degrees and certifications at institutions in the Territory.

The Premier while delivering his Budget Address at the Second Sitting of the Second Session of the Fourth House of Assembly explained that schools will be internationally recognised and accredited universities will offer distance learning models in the Territory with the aim of improving capacity for the public and private sector.

Premier Fahie added, “Persons will be able to obtain or upgrade their qualifications at a lower cost without having to leave their homes, their families and their jobs. They will be able to command the job of their choice and negotiate better wages, while being able to grow professionally.”

The proposed Bachelors and Masters programmes are not expected to replace the already existing relationship and programmes offered with Johnson and Wales University through the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. Instead these efforts are intended to offer options for persons seeking to develop their educational portfolio.

Premier Fahie said his Government will also review “the arrangements through the Public Service to facilitate the Territory’s public officers being able to pursue qualifications to the Masters and Doctoral level.”

Other prospective scholars can expect the scholarship programme to be fully re-established in 2020.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, is responsible for all educational services and is committed to providing high quality education in order to enrich the lives of all residents of these Virgin Islands.