Community after-school programme expanded to all 17 districts

The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment has announced the expansion of its Community After-School Programme (CASP) to all 17 districts across Saint Lucia.

First launched in 2009, CASP began as a pilot in three communities before evolving into a key social support programme providing structured after-school activities for children aged 6 to 16. The expansion, officials say, represents a significant step in the Ministry’s goal of strengthening social inclusion and child development.

Deputy Director for Social Transformation, Kerian Calixte, said the programme’s reach has grown to communities where intervention is most needed.

“With the Ministry of Equity, it’s all about social inclusion,” Calixte explained. “We want to target communities where there are issues with children, with crime, and where there’s a need to engage young people in positive activities. We want to ensure that no community is left behind.”

As part of the expansion, CASP centres in Anse La Raye and Micoud have been relocated to new venues to better serve residents, while Bocage has been added as the newest location.

At Bocage Primary School, 17 students are currently enrolled. The school’s principal and CASP supervisor, Tamara St Marthe, said the programme provides valuable support to students who might otherwise return home without supervision.

“The programme is extremely beneficial, as it provides a safe and structured environment for children,” she said. “Academic assistance is a core component, whether completing homework or getting help understanding concepts. We also ensure students receive guidance in essential values and morals.”

The Life Skills component is another central feature of CASP. Gisele Antoine, Life Skills Coordinator at Bocage, said the programme aims to help children build personal and emotional awareness alongside academic progress.

“It develops the student’s personal, social and emotional skills, teaching them how to express feelings, communicate effectively, solve problems, and make decisions in their everyday life,” Antoine said.

The Ministry also confirmed that a new pilot initiative will be launched in Dennery South, focusing specifically on children with disabilities and providing therapeutic interventions, tailored learning support and inclusive recreational opportunities.

The Ministry described the expansion as part of its continued effort to “save a mind, save a child”, ensuring that vulnerable children across Saint Lucia have access to supportive learning environments.

CASP operates three days a week: Monday to Wednesday, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.,  offering a blend of academic tutoring, life skills sessions and creative arts activities such as theatre, music and sports.