Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), right, and Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL) at the signing for Design Services for student dormitories at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) on April 14, 2026. Photo: RDA

An Memorandum of Understanding and Deed of Contribution were signed between the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), and the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) on Tuesday April 14, 2026 to formally initiate the design phase for student dormitories at HLSCC’s Paraquita Bay campus. Photo: VINO/ File

The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) stated,“This isn't just a routine action. It is a statement of intent. It is a declaration that the Virgin Islands is ready to take another bold stride in strengthening our education system, expanding opportunities for our people, and positioning our Territory for a more diversified and resilient future.” Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

These sentiments were expressed by the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), and the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

The Deed of Contribution was signed to formally initiate the design phase for student dormitories at HLSCC’s Paraquita Bay campus, which has been part of the College’s Master Plan for a long time.

Also participating in the signing ceremony was Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL).

Honouable wheatley stated, ”When completed, these dormitories will transform access to tertiary and post‑secondary education in the Virgin Islands.”

VI students faced challenges due to geographical constraints

For many years, students from Anegada, Jost van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda have faced additional challenges due to geographical constraints. The lack of on-island accommodation has often resulted in higher costs, longer commutes, and difficult choices for families.

The premier stated, “With the construction of these dormitories, we will remove one of the most persistent barriers to higher education for our own people. We will make it easier for Virgin Islanders - no matter on which island they reside - to pursue their studies right here at home, build their skills, and prepare for a bright future.”

He acknowledged that the impact of this project extends even further, stating that the dormitories will also accommodate international students. “Students who will see the Virgin Islands not only as a world‑class destination, but as a place where they can receive a quality education in a safe, beautiful, and culturally rich environment.” 

Project promotes educational tourism

This project will support the government's commitment to diversifying the economy through educational tourism. The Virgin Islands possesses all the natural advantages of a premier destination, along with academic offerings that attract learners from across the region and beyond.

“This shift is historic and symbolic. Only a few decades ago - and to some extent even today - Virgin Islanders seeking higher education had to leave our shores, often travelling far from home - begging lodging in other islands - to pursue their dreams,” Premier Wheatley exclaimed.

“With the development of these dormitories, we are turning that story around. We are creating a future where people from other countries will come here to study, to grow, and to contribute to the life of our Territory. That is a powerful symbol of progress, and a testament to the vision of those who built and continue to build our education system,” Dr Wheatley further added.