In a vision of shared progress, Dominica and China embarked on an ambitious educational initiative, breaking ground for six new schools, including the Goodwill Secondary School (GSS). Chinese Ambassador Lin Xianjiang lauded these projects as potential cornerstones of the Caribbean’s educational landscape.
Post-Hurricane Maria, the urgency for modern educational facilities in Dominica became apparent. Ambassador Lin stressed the importance of providing students with a comfortable and visually appealing environment. These schools, constructed by China’s Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, aim to meet these standards.
The project’s timeline began with an exchange of notes in April 2020, committing to reconstruct six schools damaged by Hurricane Maria. The endeavor expanded by 6% to include staff offices and safety rooms after supplementary agreements in December 2021. A dedicated investigation team, working for over 40 days, adapted design plans based on real-time conditions during their inspections in Dominica in May 2022.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit expressed heartfelt gratitude for China’s consistent support over 19 years, spanning various sectors. Given the world’s economic challenges driven by COVID-19 and global conflicts, the $30 million investment in education is invaluable. Skerrit emphasized that education is vital for national development, evidenced by the Dominica Education Enhancement Project’s $15 million support for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in secondary schools. He envisions GSS as a Center of Excellence for technical vocational education, nurturing skilled individuals and fostering regional competitiveness.
Skerrit, CARICOM Chairman, recognizes the necessity of education reform across the Caribbean. He pledges collaboration with regional counterparts to ensure curricula and skills align with the evolving job landscape, offering every Caribbean citizen a path to success.
In closing, the collaborative effort between Dominica and China signifies a shared commitment to shaping a brighter future through education, fostering resilience, and creating opportunities for the nation’s youth.
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