Notes from the Cabinet: Board of Education Updates Cabinet on School Expansion, Renovation and Maintenance Programme
The Management of the Board of Education appeared before the Cabinet and provided a comprehensive update on work being undertaken during the summer break to prepare the nation’s schools for the start of the new academic year.
Cabinet was informed that the Board has been utilizing the summer period to undertake a wide-ranging programme of construction, expansion, renovation, repairs and general maintenance across the education plant, with several major projects being advanced simultaneously.
The Management reported that, in addition to its continuing involvement in the development of the new Five Islands Primary School, expansion works are being advanced at the Clare Hall Secondary School, Antigua Grammar School and Pigotts Primary School.
Cabinet also received an update on plans for the expansion of the Sir Novelle Richards Academy. The Ministry of Education will finalize the details and requirements for the proposed expansion as the Government continues to respond to the growing need for additional and improved educational spaces.
The Board advised Cabinet that additional funding will be allocated during the upcoming school year for major expansion and renovation works at schools across Antigua and Barbuda.
Cabinet noted that the continued investment in the education plant is necessary to provide students and teachers with safe, comfortable and appropriate environments for teaching and learning, while also responding to increased enrolment and the changing needs of the education system.
Alongside the major capital projects, the Board is carrying out its customary summer maintenance programme at schools throughout the country.
The works include plumbing and electrical repairs, replacement of windows, installation of new furniture and other general repairs and improvements required to have school plants ready for the return of students and teachers.
Cabinet was advised that the Board continues to work closely with school administrators and the Ministry of Education to identify priority areas and ensure that the most urgent works are addressed ahead of the reopening of schools.
The Board of Education is also providing support to institutions affiliated with the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) as the Government continues to strengthen and expand opportunities for tertiary, technical and vocational education.
Cabinet noted the important role being played by the Board in supporting the Government’s wider programme of educational development, from the improvement of primary and secondary school infrastructure to the expansion of post-secondary education and skills training.
Following the presentation, Cabinet commended the Management and staff of the Board of Education for their sterling performance and for the considerable volume of work being undertaken during the summer period.
Cabinet particularly acknowledged the Board’s ability to manage major expansion projects while simultaneously carrying out repairs and maintenance across the school system and providing support to other educational institutions.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its investment in education infrastructure and ensuring that the country’s students and educators have access to facilities that support quality teaching, learning and skills development.
Cabinet looks forward to the completion of the ongoing summer works and to the continued implementation of the major school expansion and renovation programme during the 2026–2027 academic year.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda Government Expanding Four Schools and Repairing Others Ahead of New Academic Year.