Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie B. deCastro will be away from the Territory on official duties attending the Education World Forum 2023 in London, United Kingdom from May 5 to 12.  

The forum provides an opportunity for education ministers, pioneers, policymakers, and experts to come together and deepen international ties through their passion for education.  

Honourable deCastro stated, “This forum has a strong focus on science and technology, which is important as we learn from other jurisdictions and industry experts about what is needed to seek opportunities and further enhance what already exists with the schools in the Virgin Islands.”

The Minister said that she was looking forward to drawing on the experience and knowledge that will be gained at the forum as the Ministry seeks to discuss how policies can be devised to build resilience in students at all levels from early childhood development to tertiary education.

Honourable de Castro added, “My goal as minster is to continue moving Virgin Islands Education: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead. I firmly believe that in order for change to take place in the education system, there are some areas that we must re-imagine, adjust and introduce.”

The forum will be held under the theme: ‘Nurturing learning culture, building resilience and promoting sustainability’ for ‘stronger, bolder, better education by design’. Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith will serve and perform the functions of Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports in Honourable deCastro’s absence.  

The appointment is in accordance with section 52 (2) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007 where the Governor action in accordance with the advice of the Premier shall, by instrument under Public Seal appoint Ministers from among the elected members of the House of Assembly.