Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe, and Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. Theodore E James, have returned to the Territory inspired and enlightened, having attended a five-day workshop on Building Climate-Resilient Food Systems.
Construction has officially begun on the Long Look Social Home Complex, a major social development initiative aimed at providing safe, supervised accommodation and structured support for some of the most vulnerable persons in the Virgin Islands.
On May 13, 2025, the Government of the Virgin Islands signed a $224,639.60 contract with Alvair Limited for consultancy services related to the engineering design and construction management of water mains and civil works for the Farmers’ Reservoir at Paraquita Bay. This 30-month project, led by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) and funded by the Government with the Premier’s Office as Ministry Partner, aims to address the long-standing water access issues affecting local farmers and enhance food security in the Territory. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley emphasized the importance of moving from discussion to action to support agricultural productivity. RDA CEO Anthony McMaster highlighted the project’s economic and strategic value, encouraging local engagement as the initiative progresses.
Seven Seas Water Group (SSWG) awarded the winners of the Prize for Water Science at the National Science Fair in recognition of World Water Day. Zara Pascoe from Cedar International School won in the Secondary Division for her project on marine pollution, while Daria Donovan and Brielle Williams from Ebenezer Thomas Primary School won in the Primary Division for their project on bacterial growth in reusable water bottles. The winners toured the Paraquita Bay Water Plant and received their prizes. Minister of Education, Hon. Sharie de Castro, praised the partnership between SSWG and the Ministry of Education, highlighting the importance of STEAM education and scientific inquiry.
Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer has given a comprehensive update on the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex renovation project and the delays that arose since the project began.
Two bids were received by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) for the West End Ferry Terminal Project by the extended deadline of January 17, 2025. One bid was from a joint venture of two local firms, and the other from a Canadian firm. The technical submissions will be evaluated by the project’s design consultant, Inros Lackner SE, with results expected by February 2025. The project is funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and aims to improve infrastructure and enhance connectivity. The West End Ferry Terminal is crucial for sea travel to and from Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and the USVI.
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission has announced the inaugural 284 Excellence Film Festival (284XFF), set for October 30 to November 2, 2025, aiming to bridge Caribbean literature and cinema. With the theme “Caribbean Literature in Motion: Caribbean Stories Reimagined,” the festival will showcase global films while spotlighting Caribbean narratives adapted for the screen. Featuring national, regional, and international competitions, as well as student and youth challenges, the event fosters creative collaboration and cultural exchange. Supported by major international film festivals and hosted in the BVI, 284XFF positions the Territory as a cinematic hub while empowering local and regional talent.
The Government of the Virgin Islands (GOVI or the “Purchaser”) invites tenders for Vehicle(s) to the Government of the Virgin Islands for use by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF)
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley launched the Road Town Partnership (RTP) on April 4, 2025, marking a new beginning for revitalizing the capital. The RTP is a public-private-community partnership aimed at transforming Road Town through collaboration, sustainable development, and urban improvement. The initiative brings together government, private sector, and community representatives under a formal structure to create and implement a comprehensive Road Town Development Plan. The Premier emphasized the need for focus, unity, and investment to build a capital city that reflects the pride and aspirations of the Virgin Islands.
On June 3, 2025, Minister Sharie B. de Castro delivered a statement on recent developments at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), highlighting progress in enrollment trends, programme expansion, and institutional effectiveness. Key updates included a rise in part-time and male student enrolment, growth in technical and marine studies, continued success of the Dual-Enrolment and CAPE programmes, and the start of preparations for HLSCC’s 2028 accreditation renewal. With $900,000 in additional government support, the College also implemented a new salary structure following an Ernst & Young compensation review, increasing faculty starting salaries by 35%. Additionally, HLSCC is exploring four-year degree-granting status, beginning with a bachelor’s in education. These efforts affirm HLSCC’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education and align with national development goals as the institution celebrates its 35th anniversary.