The Government of the Virgin Islands is highlighting another positive outcome of the Road Town Partnership Programme, a public-private partnership initiative established to enhance the appearance, functionality, and safety of the capital.
Premier and Minister of Finance of the Virgin Islands, Dr. Natalio Wheatley, has described his participation in the recent political caucus of Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) as both necessary and encouraging, given the pace of current regional and international developments.
The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change is seeking applications for the position of Member of the Crown Lands Advisory Board, as established under the Crown Lands Management Act, 2024.
The available positions are as follows:
The Government of the Virgin Islands is investing over two million dollars this year to upgrade schools. Minister for Education Honourable Sharie de Castro highlighted the importance of safe, modern, and conducive learning environments. Planned upgrades include waterproofing, roof repairs, window and door replacements, backup power generators, and improved plumbing, air conditioning, and security. Previous investments in school infrastructure were made, with 2024 seeing a $1.5 million investment. This year, the government plans to invest $2.5 million. Funding is also allocated for a secondary educational facility focused on technical and vocational skills. Additionally, five new playgrounds have been installed, and the Althea Scatliffe Primary School redevelopment is in the design phase.
Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation, Delivers Opening Address at Financial Services Conference
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports brought early literacy to life this month as more than one thousand young learners participated in the 2026 Early Childhood Book Parades held across the Territory as part of Education Month activities.
Five farmers in Paraquita Bay are now better equipped to support their agricultural operations following the distribution of five 1,000-gallon water tanks under the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Integrated Land Management (ILM) / Sustainable Land Management (SLM) programme.
2025 Speech from the Throne delivered by His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce
Premier Dr. The Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley addressed the inauguration of the Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) School of Medicine in the Virgin Islands on March 24, 2025. He emphasized that this marks a significant milestone for the territory's healthcare and education sectors. For the first time, students can study medicine locally at an internationally accredited institution, with the program starting on July 28, 2025. The medical school will offer affordable education, provide scholarships, and contribute to the local economy through increased tourism, air connectivity, and job creation. Premier Wheatley also highlighted the long-term benefits of the school’s establishment, such as improving healthcare, supporting edu-tourism, and creating future growth opportunities in various sectors.
The release of the recent Auditor General’s report has prompted significant public discussion, particularly around the adjustments made to the compensation of elected Members of the House of Assembly. The level of public interest underscores the importance of transparency and clear communication regarding the decisions taken, the rationale behind them, and the processes that were followed.