BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a US$17 million loan to support the Government of St. Lucia’s mission to expand access to quality education, modernize infrastructure, and enhance teacher training.
In a landmark effort to improve educational outcomes in St Lucia, the “Programme for Education, Realignment and Transformation – Saint Lucia” aims to tackle key challenges in the education system by focusing on improving its quality, equity, and relevance.
The program aims to drive social and economic development by equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st century.
As part of the initiative, a dedicated school for students with special needs will be constructed, and several existing schools will be retrofitted to meet modern safety and design standards.
The program also seeks to expand access to quality education by improving early childhood development and creating inclusive learning environments that support students with Special Educational Needs.
The CDB says that teacher training and professional development will be strengthened to ensure its success, equipping educators with expertise in special education, psychosocial support, gender sensitization, and modern teaching methodologies.
CDB’s funding for the project will cover 56% of the total costs of just over US$30 million, with the Government of St Lucia contributing US$9.3 million and an additional US$ 4 million provided by the Global Partnership for Education, the largest global fund exclusively dedicated to improving education in lower-income countries.
Pointing to research showing that improvements in lighting, ventilation, and sanitation positively impact academic achievement and reduce dropout rates, Dr. Martin Baptiste, CDB Division Chief, Social Sector Division, noted that the project’s focus on improving infrastructure was driven by evidence demonstrating a direct link between the physical learning environment and student outcomes.
“This investment in school infrastructure is crucial for ensuring that all Saint Lucian students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. By enhancing the learning environment, the project will help create a more conducive atmosphere for teachers and students, fostering a positive and productive learning experience,” Baptiste said.
He added that by addressing long-standing gender disparities in enrolment, academic performance, and subject selection, the program is poised to create a more inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system that benefits all learners.
“This is not just an investment in infrastructure or teacher training, it’s an investment in the future of every child in Saint Lucia. By creating a more inclusive and resilient education system, we are laying the foundation for a generation of young people empowered to drive innovation, economic growth, and social transformation in their communities.”
The commitment to the Programme for Education, Realignment, and Transformation reaffirms CDB’s commitment to empowering Saint Lucia through sustainable development and investment in its people.
The Bank has a long history of supporting St Lucia’s development, including previous health, water supply, and fire services investments.
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