Education, Water Security Among 2027 Budget Priorities
BASSETERRE — Education reform and water security are among the key priorities being considered as St. Kitts and Nevis prepares its 2027 National Budget, according to presentations made at the 2027 Budget Community Consultation and National Forum.
The forum was held under the theme “Investing Strategically, Strengthening Resilience, Delivering for the People.”
Officials from the Ministry of Education, including Dr. Tricia Esdale, Mrs. Amanda Edmeade and Dr. Courtney Thompson, outlined plans to modernize curricula, improve student assessment and expand technical and vocational training. Other education priorities include inclusive education, school safety and the introduction of new subjects such as digital literacy and St. Kitts and Nevis studies.
Dr. Thompson, chief executive officer for technical and vocational education and training, stressed the importance of equipping students with practical skills to meet future workforce needs and strengthen the country’s competitiveness.
On water, the Water Services Department reported increased production capacity and investments in storage aimed at making the supply more reliable. Chief Engineer Landreth Isaac said approximately 70 percent of St. Kitts now has access to a 24-hour water supply. He said the improvements are also supporting key facilities, including schools and hospitals.
Proposed water priorities for 2027 include upgrading pipelines, strengthening the emergency water supply and improving monitoring of the water distribution system.
The forum also addressed infrastructure, energy, health and social security. These areas formed part of the wider discussions as the government works toward its 2027 National Budget.
