Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sport and Digital Transformation, Hon. Kenson Casimir, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening tertiary education following a high level meeting with the Board of Governors of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC).
Discussions focused on key strategic priorities for SALCC, including the current state of the institution’s infrastructure and its long-term development agenda. Central to the meeting was the planned transition of SALCC to university status, with emphasis placed on the policy direction, structural adjustments, and resource requirements needed to support that transformation.
Minister Casimir described the engagement as a critical step in shaping the future of tertiary education in Saint Lucia.
“The transition of SALCC to university status is not just an institutional upgrade, it is a national priority. We must ensure that our systems, infrastructure, and academic frameworks are aligned to deliver a higher standard of education that meets both local and global demands,” Casimir said.
He emphasized that the Government is focused on creating an environment where students can access expanded opportunities without having to leave the island.
“Our responsibility is to build a tertiary education system that prepares our young people for the future while supporting national development,” the Minister added. “This means investing in infrastructure, strengthening governance, and ensuring that SALCC is equipped to deliver at a university level.”
The meeting also highlighted the importance of aligning SALCC’s development with broader national goals, including workforce development, innovation, and digital transformation.
Officials say the engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Government to enhance the quality, accessibility, and relevance of higher education in Saint Lucia.
The Ministry of Education has indicated that further consultations and planning initiatives will continue as work progresses toward the institution’s long-term transformation.
The meeting was held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the Ministry of Education.
