Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has pledged that a re-elected Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) government will guarantee free early childhood education for every child born in Saint Lucia.
Pierre made the announcement on September 21 during the Castries South East launch of Lisa Jawahir as the party’s candidate for the constituency.
“And tonight, I want to tell you, after we’ve won the next election, we will guarantee free early childhood education for every child born in Saint Lucia,” he told supporters.
“Every child will have an opportunity to go to an early childhood institution so they can be nurtured to take their place in society and be citizens of Saint Lucia.”
The prime minister reiterated the proposal on September 22 during a pre-Cabinet press briefing, describing universal early childhood education as a “fundamental area” of national development.
“We think there’s been a shortage of skills at the kindergarten and preschool level, so the government will make it possible that every child will have access,” Pierre said.
Pierre said the initiative would involve both the government and the private sector, with support for existing preschools, improvements in curriculum, and investment in early learning infrastructure.
“This is a practical promise that the government will initiate,” he added, “so that our early childhood learners can be well equipped for the world as they move on to infant and primary schools.”
The announcement marks a significant policy commitment by the Pierre administration as the country edges closer to the next general election, expected within the constitutionally mandated timeframe.
