Gertrude Roberts

Gertrude Roberts (1930–2019) was an educationist and politician in Dominica, widely recognized for her lifelong commitment to improving the island’s educational standards, championing women’s affairs, and rebuilding communities after natural disasters. She was born in 1930 in Delices and obtained her National Teachers Certificate in 1952. She later pursued an advanced certificate from the Teachers College in Antigua in 1959 and a certificate in educational studies from the Institute of Education at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK in 1966.

Gertrude’s Early Life and Educational Foundation

Growing up in Delices, Gertrude Roberts (née Jno-Baptiste) displayed a passion for learning and community work from an early age. After gaining hands-on teaching experience, she further honed her skills at the Dominica Teachers Training College (DTTC). She also engaged in courses at the Dominica State College (DSC) to broaden her knowledge in curriculum planning, social studies, and youth development strategies. Though she briefly attended Convent High School, events in Roseau later in her career to share best practices, her formal secondary studies took place in another local institution decades before.

Teaching Career and Community Engagement

Her professional path began in the 1950s, teaching in various schools across Dominica. In time, she rose to the post of principal at the Grand Fond Primary School, where she shaped the academic environment for students in the southeastern parish of St. David. Under her leadership, students benefited from practical lesson plans and extracurricular programs, many of which she implemented in collaboration with the Grand Fond Village Council and neighbouring communities.

In 1973, the National Service Award acknowledged her impact on education and civic life. She left the classroom for a period to become program coordinator for the National Council of Women in Dominica, strengthening women’s advocacy and supporting community initiatives across the island.

Political Involvement and National Contributions

Following the devastating effects of Hurricane David in 1979, Gertrude Roberts co-founded the Pickaxe Brigade alongside other Dominica leaders, spearheading reconstruction efforts in multiple districts. Her entry into elective office came in 1990, when she was voted to represent the Morne Jaune/Riviere Cyrique constituency. She earned reelection in both 1995 and 2000, reflecting widespread support for her diligent advocacy.

When the United Workers Party (UWP) won the 1995 elections, she served as Minister of Community Development and Women’s Affairs, advancing policies to strengthen local governance bodies and increase resources for family services. Her role in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence helped integrate community-development frameworks into Dominica’s broader curriculum reforms.

Later Roles and Retirement

Throughout her political tenure, she maintained contact with past colleagues at the Grand Fond Primary School and fellow educators at the Dominica Teachers Training College (DTTC), ensuring that policies remained aligned with on-the-ground realities. She retired from elective politics in 2005 after more than a decade in public service.

Family and Personal Legacy

Gertrude Roberts was mother to six children: Gweneth, Brendalyn, Brenda, Bertillia, Greta, and Brian. Daughter Greta later pursued aspirations to become the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) candidate for the Grand Fond constituency in the 2019 general elections. Roberts’ commitment to family life was evident even during her busiest years—she fostered a household atmosphere that valued education, volunteerism, and civic duty.

Passing and Tribute

Gertrude Roberts died in November 2019 at 90, prompting a period of national mourning. A solemn funeral service was held at the Grand Fond Roman Catholic Church, where members of the community and dignitaries gathered to pay their respects. Her burial occurred at the Rosalie Roman Catholic Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by family, colleagues, and countless Dominicans who benefited from her devotion to education and community development.