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Meet the Minister’ Initiative- an Investment in System Transformation
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro, emphasized that the ‘Meet the Minister’ Initiative, launched in 2022, is a purposeful effort to build strong relationships and transform the education system in the Virgin Islands. Speaking at the House of Assembly, she highlighted how the programme has improved the ministry’s insight into critical needs, guided policy-making, and strengthened support for teachers and schools. Rejecting the notion that it is merely a public relations effort, de Castro reaffirmed the importance of collaboration across all education stakeholders. She confirmed the initiative’s continuation into the next school year, aiming to create a resilient and inclusive education system that empowers teachers and ensures every student’s success.
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Contract Signed For Solar Technology Energy Programme
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley highlighted the Solar Technology Energy Programme (S.T.E.P.) as a key initiative for sustainable energy in the Virgin Islands. The program, led by the Ministry of Communications and Works, installs solar panels and inverters to reduce energy costs by up to 50% for participants. The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) covers all upfront costs, and customers can earn credits for excess energy sold back to the grid. Minister Kye M. Rymer emphasized the government's commitment to sustainable energy, investing $1 million in the initiative. Future phases will explore additional solar technologies.
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Gun Violence Highlighted as Primary Crime Concern in Virgin Islands Ahead of Inaugural Anti-Crime Summit
Crime in the Virgin Islands has risen by 13 percent over the past year, based on a comparison of the period from January to July, according to Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mr. Kenrick Davis, who confirmed that gun violence remains a major concern, but domestic violence is the leading contributor to the overall increase in reported crimes.
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Opening of Public Schools for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports advises the public that the 2025–2026 academic year will officially commence as follows:
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20 Achievements in Education Outlined in 2025 Territorial Address
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley announced a five-year strategic staffing plan that will add over 80 key positions to schools across the Virgin Islands, alongside a $2.5 million investment for critical upgrades including infrastructure repairs, safety enhancements, and new security systems. The government has also invested in modern classroom technology and teacher training to foster creativity and retain talent. Highlighting education initiatives like STEAM curriculum improvements, the Mathivated Project, and the Let’s Teach VI program, the Premier emphasized the importance of preparing future generations while honoring the Territory’s legacy, all framed within the 2025 Territorial Address theme of building a sustainable nation.
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Notice of School Closure Tuesday, 18th November, 2025
Following the Government of the Virgin Islands’ decision to implement a half-day schedule for all public officers on Tuesday, 18th November, 2025, the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports advises teachers, students, parents and the wider community that all public schools will close at 12:00 p.m. on that day.
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Tender opportunity announced for Prospect Reef infrastructure works
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for road rehabilitation works at Prospect Reef, Tortola. The project includes demolition, excavation, site clearance, and the construction of concrete culverts, drainage, and pavement improvements. Tender documents are available upon request via email to procurement@gov.vg with the subject “Prospect Reef Road Rehabilitation.” A virtual pre-tender meeting will be held on Thursday, 4th December 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (local time). Tenders must be submitted by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 20th January 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. Tenders will be publicly opened at 11:00 a.m. on the same day via WebEx. For full details, contact the Procurement Unit at (284) 468-4245 or email procurement@gov.vg.
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Tenders Invited For Fabricated Metal Rail & Perimeter Wall Installation At ESHS
The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, is inviting tenders for the fabrication and installation of metal rails and a perimeter wall at the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) in Road Town, Tortola.
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The BVI Fars Payment Portal Is Now Live!!! The BVI Fars Payment Portal Is Now Live!!!
The BVIFars payment portal is now live. Entities with FATCA, CRS, and CbCr obligations must enroll and pay a $185 annual fee by June 1 to avoid late fees and enforcement. New forms and user guides are available at www.bviita.vg under the BVIFars tab.
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Advisory: Clear Mailboxes Ahead of Impending Weather
The BVI Post Office is urging all customers to clear their mailboxes promptly ahead of the impending weather.