Government

The Government of Montserrat is advancing a series of measures aimed at strengthening child safeguarding and reducing vulnerabilities among students here. Minister for Health and Social Services, Dr. the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge made the important announcement during Meeting No. 14 of the 18th Parliament on Tuesday. She outlined initiatives focused on student welfare, safety and support, particularly within the education system. The education minister said a breakfast programme is set to be introduced at the Montserrat Secondary School- MSS, to address food insecurity among students. She explained that the programme will provide students with a healthy breakfast to support their well-being and learning. Dr Buffonge stressed that the government and the Ministry of Education are adopting a firm, zero-tolerance approach to child safeguarding. Addressing after-school safety concerns, Dr Buffonge noted that the government is currently seeking funding for structured after-school programmes to ensure students are kept safe and engaged during these hours. The minister further revealed that additional funding will be requested at the upcoming Budget Support Mission for another Safe Summer Programme.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Government of Montserrat and Monroe University as part of efforts to strengthen the local workforce and support local students transitioning into tertiary education. The announcement was made by Minister of Education, Dr, the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge, during the 18th Parliament, Tuesday, where she outlined the agreement as a key component of the United Alliance administration’s strategy to build human capital and grow the economy on Montserrat. Dr Buffonge said the memorandum establishes a partnership with the New York–based Monroe University, which also operates a campus in St. Lucia, and includes scholarship opportunities for Montserratian students. She noted that a virtual meeting is scheduled for March to finalise plans ahead of the university’s first official visit to Montserrat. According to the minister, the partnership aligns with the ministry’s strategic objective of improving the transition from secondary to tertiary education, an area she described as critical for student success and workforce development. In addition to the Monroe University agreement, the minister said the government has sought support from the Montserrat UK Office to assist students preparing for post-secondary education, including connecting current MSS students with Montserratians who have successfully completed tertiary studies, either through in-person engagement or virtual mentorship. She added that the Montserrat UK Office has committed to providing mentorship support, and that assistance has also been requested from Chevening alumni to further strengthen guidance for students pursuing higher education.