BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – In a landmark effort to improve educational outcomes in Saint Lucia, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a USD 17 million loan to support the Government’s mission to expand access to quality education, modernise infrastructure, and enhance teacher training.
The “Programme for Education, Realignment and Transformation – Saint Lucia” aims to tackle key challenges in the education system by focusing on improving its quality, equity, and relevance. Designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st century, the programme aims to drive both social and economic development.
As part of the initiative, a dedicated school for students with special needs will be constructed, and several existing schools will be retrofitted to meet modern safety and design standards. The programme also seeks to expand access to quality education by improving early childhood development and creating inclusive learning environments that support students with Special Educational Needs. To ensure its success, teacher training and professional development will be strengthened, equipping educators with expertise in special education, psychosocial support, gender sensitisation, and modern teaching methodologies.
CDB’s funding for the project will cover 56 percent of the total costs of just over USD30 million, with the Government of Saint Lucia contributing USD 9.3 million and an additional USD 4 million provided by the Global Partnership for Education, the largest global fund exclusively dedicated to improving education in lower-income countries.
Pointing to research showing that improvements in lighting, ventilation, and sanitation positively impact academic achievement and reduce dropout rates, Dr Martin Baptiste, CDB division chief, social sector division, noted that the project’s focus on improving infrastructure was driven by evidence demonstrating a direct link between the physical learning environment and student outcomes.
“This investment in school infrastructure is crucial for ensuring that all Saint Lucian students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. By enhancing the learning environment, the project will help to create a more conducive atmosphere for both teachers and students, fostering a positive and productive learning experience,” Dr Baptiste added, by addressing long-standing gender disparities in enrolment, academic performance, and subject selection, the programme is poised to create a more inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system that benefits all learners.
“This is not just an investment in infrastructure or teacher training, it’s an investment in the future of every child in Saint Lucia. By creating a more inclusive and resilient education system, we are laying the foundation for a generation of young people who will be empowered to drive innovation, economic growth, and social transformation in their communities.”
The commitment to the Programme for Education, Realignment and Transformation reaffirms CDB’s commitment to empowering Saint Lucia through sustainable development and investment in its people. The bank has a long history of supporting Saint Lucia’s development, including previous investments in health, water supply and fire services.
