Newly elected president Troy Nestor is outlining a reform-focused agenda for the Saint Lucia Teachers’ Union (SLTU) following what he described as a deeply emotional yet ultimately rewarding election campaign.
Speaking after the conclusion of the union’s internal poll on Tuesday, Nestor said the experience brought him closer to the concerns of teachers while also revealing areas in need of improvement. He described the campaign as “quite a rewarding experience,” noting that it allowed him to hear directly from educators about their challenges and expectations, while helping them better understand the union’s direction.
While acknowledging that the campaign period was marked by heightened emotions among members, Nestor stressed the importance of steady and composed leadership during such processes. At the same time, he pointed out that the elections exposed gaps in the union’s governance framework, including loopholes and concerns around adherence to established codes of conduct—issues he intends to address in the upcoming biennium.
Central to his agenda is a renewed effort to strengthen the union’s image and credibility. Nestor emphasized the need to rebuild the SLTU’s standing as a respected institution grounded in integrity, while ensuring that members see tangible value in the organization.
Currently serving as First Vice President, Nestor indicated that his leadership will be rooted in continuity, with key members of the executive expected to remain in place to advance ongoing initiatives.
He noted that the union maintained its focus on critical matters even during the campaign period, including interventions at schools such as Iris Simmons Secondary and collaboration with the Ministry of Education to clarify timelines for MST and CPEA submissions.
Looking ahead, Nestor identified several immediate priorities, including advancing phase two of the union’s headquarters development, improving access to member benefits such as identification cards, and re-establishing the union’s youth arm. He described the revival of the youth committee as essential to building capacity within the organization and fostering greater involvement among younger educators, adding that increased participation will help members better understand the union’s structure, processes, and standards of conduct.
He also signaled a commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders, while maintaining firm expectations regarding teachers’ working conditions.
As the SLTU prepares for its next chapter, Nestor’s leadership is expected to focus on governance reform, institutional strengthening, and renewed engagement with members, positioning the union to play a stronger role in shaping the future of education in Saint Lucia.
