Ministers of Education, Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly and Lisa Morris-Julian, along with officials of the Ministry of Education, visited six schools in East and North Trinidad to meet with school officials and children on the first day of in-person classes for Standard 5 and Forms 1 to 3. The schools visited were Lakshmi Girls’ Hindu College, El Dorado West Secondary School, El Socorro South Government Primary School, Lower Morvant Government Primary School, Laventille Girls’ Government Primary School, and Belmont Secondary School.
The Ministry of Education team was heartened by the enthusiasm and excitement of the students; especially those in
Forms 1 and 2 who were entering their physical schools for the first time since sitting the S.E.A.
The Education Minister expressed that, “We at the Ministry of Education are happy to see you back in school. We are doing all we can to make sure that you are safe, however, there are also some things that you must do to stay safe so that we can keep school open. Remember to wear your mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.”
Levels of attendance, implementation of safety protocols and general readiness were assessed by the team of Ministry officials. From all reports, 99% of our 600-odd schools were able to welcome students physically. At secondary schools, teacher and student attendance averaged 84.5% and 65% respectively, while at primary schools, 91% of teachers and 73% of students were in attendance.
The Ministry of Education will continue to provide critical support to schools to ensure that by Wednesday 9th
February, 2022, all schools can resume physical operations.
In addressing the students at El Socorro South Government Primary School, the Education Minister encouraged all students to take full advantage of the educational opportunities they have been given and reiterated the value of schooling. The Ministers thank teachers, students, administrators, parents and all stakeholders for their patriotism, as we stand together with a shared commitment: to provide all our children with the best chance of educational success.
On Tuesday February 8, 2022, both Ministers and a team of officials from the Ministry are expected to visit schools in South Trinidad.