Education and water security among priorities for 2027 budget
Officials told a budget consultation that around 70 per cent of St Kitts now has a 24-hour water supply, as the Ministry of Education outlined curriculum reforms.
BASSETERRE, St Kitts. Education reform and water security are among the priorities being considered for the 2027 National Budget, according to presentations made at the 2027 Budget Community Consultation and National Forum.
Ministry of Education officials Dr Tricia Esdale, Amanda Edmeade and Dr Courtney Thompson set out plans to modernise curricula, improve student assessment, expand technical and vocational training, strengthen inclusive education and improve school safety.
The ministry also intends to introduce new subjects, including digital literacy and St Kitts and Nevis studies. Dr Thompson, chief executive officer for technical and vocational education and training, said the aim was to give students practical skills for the workforce of the future.
Chief Engineer of the Water Services Department Landreth Isaac reported higher production capacity and new investment in storage, which he said had made supply more reliable. About 70 per cent of St Kitts now has access to a 24-hour water supply, he said.
Proposed water priorities for 2027 include upgrading pipelines, strengthening emergency supply and improving monitoring of the distribution system.
The forum, held under the theme "Investing Strategically, Strengthening Resilience, Delivering for the People", also heard presentations on infrastructure, energy, health and social security.
