The measures align with the government’s broader emphasis on early intervention, keeping young people engaged in education and addressing problems before they develop into more serious delinquent behaviour.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre had earlier announced plans to strengthen truancy staffing. In his April 2026/27 Budget Address, he said more than 120 students were missing from school and outlined an increase in truancy officers from one to four, working with principals, teachers and social workers to establish why children were absent.

In his presentation at pre Cabinet Press Briefing, Casimir described a comprehensive truancy programme involving the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund, the Ministry of Equity, the Welfare Department and social transformation officers. Principals, teachers and counsellors would also participate.

“A very comprehensive programme” would be instituted, he said, outlining interventions extending beyond the classroom.

Public outreach will be a central component, with advertisements and sensitisation activities encouraging wider participation in addressing absenteeism.

“One of the main things we will be doing is the public outreach,” Casimir said.

He explained that a presentation reviewed by officials had identified communities experiencing greater problems with school dropouts and irregular attendance. The Ministry of Education intends to present its findings to Cabinet before moving towards implementation of the strategy.