Basseterre High School Reconstruction Set to Transform Education in St. Kitts and Nevis

The much-anticipated reconstruction of Basseterre High School (BHS) is poised to begin in early 2025, marking a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to modernising the Federation’s educational infrastructure. This ambitious project, announced by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and Minister of Education Dr. Geoffrey Hanley during a site visit to Victoria Road, promises to revolutionise learning experiences for students in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Promise to Progress

Prime Minister Drew reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to delivering on its promise to rebuild Basseterre High School, a project he described as a cornerstone of the government’s vision for education.

“This is more than just the construction of a building; it is a promise fulfilled—a promise to our young people and their families to provide them with the best educational opportunities in a world-class environment,” said Dr. Drew. “The design process has been collaborative, and I want to extend my gratitude to our local architects who have helped us bring this vision to life. We remain on schedule to start construction in the first quarter of 2025.”

A New Era for Education

The decision to rebuild BHS comes after years of challenges faced by students and staff in the aging facility. Minister Hanley highlighted the significance of the project, acknowledging the sacrifices made in recent years.

“The closure of the previous school was a difficult but necessary step to ensure the safety of our students,” he stated. “Now, we are ready to turn the page and begin a new chapter for education in St. Kitts and Nevis. In 2025, we will lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art Basseterre High School that reflects our commitment to excellence.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The new Basseterre High School will feature cutting-edge facilities designed to meet the demands of modern education. Key highlights include:

• 32 classrooms designed for 21st-century learning.
• Specialised spaces for arts and sciences, including two music rooms, four science labs, and six computer labs.
• A 1,200-seat auditorium for school and community events.
• A fully equipped lecture hall for advanced lessons and seminars.
• International-standard sporting facilities to promote physical education and athletic excellence.
• Accessibility features ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for students with disabilities.

Economic Boost

The reconstruction of BHS is expected to deliver significant economic benefits, creating employment opportunities for local contractors, tradespeople, and labourers. Minister Hanley underscored the importance of community involvement in the project.

“This is an investment in education and our economy,” he said. “The people of St. Kitts and Nevis will not only benefit from a modern school but also from the jobs created throughout the construction process.”

A Broader Vision for Education

The Basseterre High School project is part of a larger initiative by the Drew-led government to overhaul the Federation’s educational infrastructure. Plans include upgrades and new facilities across the islands to create modern, safe, and inclusive learning environments for all students.

“Our vision extends beyond this one school,” stated Dr. Drew. “We are laying the groundwork for a brighter future, where education empowers our youth to become leaders, innovators, and critical thinkers who will shape the destiny of St. Kitts and Nevis.”