The multi-functional facility, the first of its kind in the community, is designed to serve as a hub for lifelong learning, youth development, and community engagement. Equipped with computers, study areas, and a flexible layout, the centre provides dedicated spaces for academic support and technology access, while also offering a venue for public meetings, cultural events, and social activities.

Parliamentary Representative for Castries South, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, spoke on the importance of investing in community infrastructure and what this means for the people of Barre St. Joseph.

“We want our children to leave school and never have to say that they could not print some research that they needed to conduct. When they need remedial classes, they can do it here. I am going to see to it that part of my allocation goes to employing someone to be able to give the children the support that they need. There’s also a library area where they can study in silence. Our children must never say that they did not have the facility where they could have gotten the information needed for their schoolwork.”

During the ceremony, the keys to the centre were handed over to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, which will, in turn, delegate responsibility to a community board tasked with the management and maintenance of the space to ensure that the facility remains responsive to the needs of the residents it serves.

Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, Hon. Joachim Henry, expressed pride in seeing such a project come to fruition, noting its alignment with the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive development and equal access to opportunity.

“All of these establishments have one purpose. It is to bring the people together so that they can work together and discuss things together. Nothing brings the essence of community development like having a community centre or a human resource development centre.”

Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, who was present at the event, commended the collaboration between ministries and the community in delivering this transformative space.

He noted that initiatives like the Barre St. Joseph Centre are essential to building resilient communities and fostering national development from the grassroots up.