SKI Academy Wins Independence Primary Schools Elocution Contest

BASSETERRE — SKI Academy won the 2026 Independence Primary Schools’ Elocution Competition on Thursday, October 8, narrowly beating seven other schools in a closely contested final at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Auditorium.

SKI Academy finished with 45.67 points, just ahead of Seventh-Day Adventist Primary School, which placed second with 45.41 points. Halliday-Smith Primary School took third place with 41.75 points. The top three schools received trophies.

Young speakers from eight primary schools across St. Kitts took part. The other participating schools were Dr. William Connor Primary, Connor-Gumbs Primary, Violet Petty Primary, Saddlers Primary and Tyrrel Williams Primary.

This year’s competition was held under the national theme for the Federation’s 43rd Independence anniversary: “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility: Independence 43.” Each student delivered an excerpt from “The Same,” a musical selection by the late calypsonian Elston “King Ellie Matt” Nero.

Organizers say the annual competition gives young students an important platform to develop their public-speaking skills, build confidence and learn to express themselves clearly before an audience.

The event formed part of activities commemorating the 43rd anniversary of St. Kitts and Nevis’ independence.