The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, signed a contract for the construction of the new Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre (EHRLC) at the contract signing and groundbreaking ceremony held earlier this morning.
The contract in the amount of three million, nine hundred and fifty-nine thousand, six hundred and ninety dollars and fifteen cents (USD 3,959,690.15) was awarded to Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd.
“The recovery of our education sector continues, and I look forward to this project,” remarked Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley.
“We look forward to being able to provide services to all the young people in our Territory because one thing we have to improve on in our community is equity – to ensure that all members of our society have a certain standard of service regardless of how you are abled.”
Premier Wheatley also said it is his hope for the new school to improve integration and interaction for the students, some having experienced this while temporarily housed at the Althea Scatliffe Primary School, following the destruction of their facility from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro said this project holds immense promise for the future of the Virgin Islands and that its history is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment.
“Today, we gather with renewed determination and enthusiasm as we embark on a journey to rebuild the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre.”
The education minister added, “The new school will provide an education that is inclusive, empowering, and aligned with our Territory’s mandate to educate all children. Education is a universal right and we firmly believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, or disability deserves an education that is tailored to their individual needs.”
Chairman of the Fundraising Sub-Committee of the RDA Mr. Shea Alexander said today’s signing is for an incredible project, from an incredible organisation for incredible work.
“I am honoured today to speak on behalf of the RDA because the work that we do truly is incredible. I am really grateful that the Government has made themselves a fitting partner for us and have allowed us to act as their agent and their tool, delivering projects at the highest calibre throughout this Territory, and I do hope to have their continued support even as we seek to evolve”.
Dion Crabbe, General Manager for Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd. spoke from his heart on the topic of Virgin Islands pride sharing that the implementation of such a project from inception, is the first for the Caribbean Region.
“The BVI had the initiative to look and see some of the needs that we have had, and actually create something for special needs, which speaks volumes.”
The RDA in its remit to build BVI Stronger, Smarter, Greener, Better, has been tasked to implement several projects and programmes across the Territory, in key sectors and measured by outcome statements identified by the Recovery to Development Plan.
The construction of the New Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre is being implemented in line with the “Cohesive and Empowered” society and is guided by the outcome statement: “An education system that is modern and well-resourced, providing opportunities for a highly skilled, globally competitive population that can participate and contribute to a sustainable Virgin Islands economy
