Madam Speaker, I take this opportunity to apprise this Honourable House on the recent notable developments at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. 672 students are enrolled this Fall semester for certificate and associate degree programmes.

Madam Speaker, it is with immense joy and renewed dedication that I acknowledge the start of the 2023-2024 school year. 

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro said that the construction of the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre, would be a project with immense promise for the future of the Virgin Islands, reflective of a history of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment.

A warm and heartfelt welcome is extended to each of you as we continue along this exciting chapter on the journey of re-imagining education in the Virgin Islands.  It is my distinct pleasure to welcome each of you to Professional Day and Summer Institute for 2023.

Premier, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley; Minister for Health, Honourable Vincent Wheatley; Acting Chief Education Officer, Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe; our esteem guests that are here with us, members from the teaching service commission, our amazing private sector partners, Unite BVI, principals, teachers, counsellors, support staff, education officers in the ministry, once again good morning to you all. 

Nurses, midwives, doctors, birth coaches, and doulas are invited to register to attend the ‘Importance and Benefits of Breastfeeding’ continuing medical education session via WebEx on Thursday August 31 at 6:30 p.m.

Let me take this opportunity to acknowledge the Premier, Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, my honourable colleagues, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, Honourable Luz Hodge Smith.  Of course, representatives of the RDA who are present, and I would like to especially recognize CEO McMaster, even in his absence, board members, all individuals from the RDA.