Through the Ministry of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training, the Government has provided a $3,000 grant to every registered private preschool and introduced a $100 per-term tuition subsidy to support parents with children enrolled in these institutions.

On Thursday, October 24, preschool administrators from 106 institutions across the island gathered at Château Heritage in Dennery to receive their cheques, signaling another tangible step in the Government’s long-term plan to ensure equitable access to quality early childhood education.

The $3,000 grant, an increase from last year’s $2,500 will enable preschools to upgrade classrooms, teaching materials, and learning environments. Meanwhile, the tuition subsidy will offer direct relief to 3,635 families, helping to ensure that every child has access to a strong educational start regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre commended preschool administrators and teachers for their dedication to nurturing the nation’s youngest minds, while also acknowledging the challenges faced by parents striving to provide their children with a quality education.

“This investment represents practical support for both families and educators,” the Prime Minister said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to making early childhood education accessible to all.

Minister for Education Hon. Shawn Edward described the initiative as part of the Government’s broader effort to promote equity and quality in early learning.

“These grants and tuition subsidies ensure that no child is left behind because of financial constraints,” Minister Edward stated.

Together, these initiatives represent a $681,500 investment in Saint Lucia’s youngest learners — an investment, the Government emphasized, that reflects its core belief that education is not a privilege but a right.