Education Minister Kenson Casimir has outlined a series of measures aimed at addressing declining student enrolment, as falling birth rates begin to impact classroom numbers across Saint Lucia.
Speaking on the issue, Casimir said the Ministry of Education is taking a proactive approach by rethinking how underutilised classrooms can be repurposed to better support students.
“This government has been very proactive as it pertains to the slowing birth rate in this country, and we realise that there are opportunities for us to refocus on different aspects of education based on these numbers,” the minister said.
He explained that instead of maintaining multiple underfilled classrooms, the ministry is considering consolidating students and transforming unused spaces into specialised learning environments.
“For instance, if you have two classrooms with 10 students each, we can combine them into one class and use the other space for something like special education,” Casimir noted.
The minister said this approach would allow schools to introduce targeted programmes, including dedicated support for students requiring additional academic assistance, as well as expanded technical and vocational education and training (TVET) opportunities.
“We can identify students who are gravitating towards technical and vocational studies and use those classrooms to provide that level of teaching,” he added.
Casimir also revealed that the ministry is exploring new interventions for students who have been suspended, moving away from traditional disciplinary approaches that leave students unsupervised.
“Previously, a child would be suspended and sent home for a week or two, with little structure. We are now looking at using available classrooms within those same schools to create programmes for these students,” he said.
Under the proposed system, suspended students would remain engaged in a structured environment, supported by behavioural counsellors and educators focused on rehabilitation and reintegration.
“You would have a classroom setup with a behavioural modification counsellor working with that child during that period to help realign them and make them more productive,” Casimir explained.
The Education Minister emphasised that these initiatives form part of a broader strategy to adapt the education system to changing demographics while improving outcomes for students.
He added that additional programmes and reforms are expected to be announced in upcoming budget discussions.
