I greet you today with a sense of deep purpose and urgency as we approach an important event in our calendar—Anti-Bullying Week 2023. This week holds immense significance, not only for our educational institutions but for our entire community.

I am delighted to announce the upcoming celebration of "Reading is Fun Week" in our beautiful territory, which will take place from Monday, October 9 to Friday, October 13, 2023, under the inspiring theme, "Reimagining Reading Beyond the Book." This week represents our unwavering commitment to enhancing the literacy skills of our students and fostering a lifelong love for reading.

Teachers, I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. Today, as we commemorate World Teachers' Day, I am honored to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment, dedication, and tireless efforts in shaping the future of our beloved Virgin Islands.

Madam Speaker, I rise to present to this Honourable House the 2023 Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examination results for the Virgin Islands.

Madam Speaker, fifty years ago, a bold decision was taken to develop the first Caribbean examination body and so the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) was born! Over those 50 years, this regional organisation now serving 16 countries has become one of the more successful regional organisations.

Madam Speaker, ensuring the safety and security of our schools is paramount to fostering a conducive learning environment for our students. The Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its commitment to this imperative task, recognizing the fundamental role of effective leadership and positive behavioral support programs in addressing the challenges associated with maintaining discipline within our educational institutions.

Madam Speaker, I am delighted to address this Honourable House today regarding the visit of our innovative and dedicated team to the prestigious FIRST Global Robotics Challenge, which was held in Singapore from October 7^th – 10, 2023.  Our team’s participation in this event holds great significance, as this was our territory’s first opportunity to participate in a global competition that advances the technology of Robotics.

Madam Speaker, this year we commemorate the 80th anniversary of secondary education in the Virgin Islands, a milestone that reflects the dedication and vision of stalwart educators and the unwavering commitment of our community. 

Madam Speaker, this year we commemorate the 80th anniversary of secondary education in the Virgin Islands, a milestone that reflects the dedication and vision of stalwart educators and the unwavering commitment of our community.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, recognises that the Jost Van Dyke Primary School (JVDPS) is subjected to constant flooding when it rains.  For this reason, the construction of the new school, remains an urgent priority and is currently in the final stages of completion.