Last Updated on January 9, 2025, 1:35 PM AST by Anthony Morris
The Government of St Kitts and Nevis has announced the allocation of $120 million for the education sector of the country, aiming to make education accessible at all levels. This allocation marks an increase of $23 million compared to the previous year, leading to an advanced learning environment for young minds of the Federation.
This announcement was made by Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew on Tuesday, during the RoundTable Interview. While making an announcement, the leader aimed at making significant efforts with a vision to invest heavily in the education sector from preschool to tertiary level.
Significant increase in allocation of budget for Education
The budget allocated for Education in 2023 was EC$93 million which later increased to EC$97 million in 2024. The allocation has later surged to a remarkable growth, leading to $120 million in 2025. The Prime Minister added that such significant increase in the allocation of budget is a testament to their commitment to make education a ‘fundamental pillar’ of national development.
Shedding light on different levels of education sector, PM Drew said that Preschool is free for some and heavily subsidized for others. Secondary education is free and College education is also free. He added that St Kitts and Nevis can boast that education in order to make it accessible for the young people of the Federation.
The Prime Minister said that this increased budget of the Education Sector will play a significant role in supporting several initiatives, helping citizens and residents to access tertiary education. He added that it would also include expanded financial assistance for economic costs and a commitment to ensure that St Kitts and Nevis Development Bank provides significant and crucial support for the education sector.
Government committed to fostering financial literacy among citizens
PM Terrance Drew further mentioned about significant and new initiatives to be taken by the Government, aiming to promote entrepreneurship and connecting the crucial link between education and economic empowerment. He highlighted about the Small Business Facility and said that the main motive behind this initiative is to provide financial support and opportunities to people who aspire to become entrepreneurs.
PM Drew also mentioned about expanding small businesses in order to create more opportunities for the people. The leader of the nation also focused on the launching of the ASPIRE Programme and said that it would benefit around 10.5 million young people. He added that this programme would play a huge role in teaching and guiding students about essential financial skills such as money management, budgeting and how to start a small business.
He added that such initiatives are creating a foundation for making St Kitts and Nevis, a more educated, financially literate, and economically strong nation.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
