2026 Back-To-School Voucher Programme Launched

The government of St. Kitts and Nevis is again moving to ease the financial pressures on households with the launch of its 2026 back-to-school voucher programme, providing EC$250 for every eligible child enrolled in a registered educational institution across the federation

The programme, which began on Monday, August 17, and runs through to December 31, 2026, will assist parents and guardians with the cost of school uniforms, educational supplies and other back-to-school necessities.

It applies to eligible children enrolled for the 2026–2027 academic year in duly licensed pre-schools, primary and secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions.

The initiative comes at a time when countries across the Caribbean and the wider world continue to contend with persistent inflation, elevated prices and external economic pressures that are affecting household budgets.

Against this challenging global backdrop, the Drew-led administration has maintained that government cannot simply observe these pressures from the sidelines, but must continue to respond with meaningful, practical and targeted interventions that protect families and strengthen their ability to withstand economic shocks.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew expressed that the back-to-school voucher programme reflects that continued commitment to standing with the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, particularly at a time of the year when household expenses traditionally increase.

The 2026 back-to-school voucher programme also forms part of the government’s wider summer support strategy, alongside two discounted VAT rate days scheduled for August 28 and 29, 2026, as well as duty-free concessions on eligible school supplies, which have been in effect since July 1 and will continue through September 30.

Collectively, the measures are intended to provide families with additional financial space as they prepare their children for the new school year.