Minister for Education Honourable Sharie deCastro has said that the Virgin Islands can no longer afford to rely solely on traditional teaching methods and outdated structures and has called for a bold reimagining of learning and integrating new technologies in Education.

Honourable deCastro, in a statement to officially launch the observance of Education Month 2025, said diversifying the curriculum and ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills and mindset are needed to lead in the 21st century.

The minister said, "Education is the bedrock of progress—the foundation upon which strong nations are built. It is the engine that drives economic growth, the spark that fuels innovation, and the thread that binds together a resilient, forward-thinking society.

She added, "Our mandate is clear: we must create an education system that not only meets the needs of today but anticipates the demands of tomorrow. We must be bold, innovative, and relentless in our pursuit of excellence."

The Education Minister outlined that central to this transformation is the Government's investment in STEAM education—science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. STEAM, she explained, is the key to unlocking innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking—skills that are essential for students to compete on the global stage.

Honourable deCastro said, "Over the past year, we have made tremendous strides in STEAM, empowering our students to think like engineers, designers, and inventors. Robotics is not just about machines; it is about teaching students to embrace challenges, persist through failure, and create solutions that will shape the future."

The minister stated that this year's theme, "Innovate, Inspire, Transform: A Reimagined Education for All," underscores the ministry's vision for a modern, inclusive, and forward-thinking education system.

"We are moving Virgin Islands education Full STEAM Ahead! —investing in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to equip our students with the skills to lead in a world driven by digital transformation and global competition," she added.

Several activities have been designed to engage and inspire have been planned in observance of the month. These include:

• Teach for a Day – Experience the life of a teacher first-hand.
• Principals' Leadership Conference – Focused on transformational leadership.
• Education Round Table – Addressing the power of dyslexia and diverse learning needs.
• Science and Innovation Fair – Showcasing the brilliance of our students.
• Youth Symposium – Giving our students a voice in education reform.
• Inter-Primary Schools Athletic Championships – Celebrating sportsmanship and school spirit.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports aims to foster an inclusive environment for all students to strive and thrive. The ministry is also committed to strengthening its human capital through professional development opportunities, increasing access, and providing equity for all students.