Deputy Governor, Mr David D. Archer Jr, has encouraged young Virgin Islanders to gain experiences overseas but remember to return home to contribute meaningfully to the Virgin Islands (VI). Photo: Facebook

Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr.’s Deputy Governor’s Monthly Message for May 2026, said the public service is for those who add value. Photo: Facebook

In his Deputy Governor’s Monthly Message for May 2026, Mr Archer said when he was Director of Human Resources, there was a programme called HR Quest BVI. “That programme was geared to have Virgin Islanders who are abroad, whether  studying or living, to come back and contribute to the wider growth of the community.”

HR Quest BVI, he said, is on the agenda for 2026. “We want to reach out to the wider community of Virgin Islanders, BVIslanders, to say consider being a part of a vibrant public service. Consider adding value, hope, and overall scope.”

Mr Archer said it means they will recognise with hope that persons who have a deep and innate connection to the VI would want to add value, ensuring the country grows in a particular way, while being in a position to understand what the needs might be.

A place for you in the public service

Meanwhile, Mr Archer, who was on his way to visit students participating in the Summer Apprentice Programme at the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute, said the programme is an important one as it provides college students with an opportunity to be involved in the public service over their break.

“Every day we get a chance to contribute to something that's good, a wider community… and persons have choices. They can work in the private sector, which you promote. They can be their own entrepreneurs, which we also promote.”

The Deputy Governor said the public service is for persons who choose to add value to the public service, to develop policies, serve clients, and work in an environment where every day we can contribute to the lives of people. 

Those still pursuing their ambitions, Mr Archer encouraged them to find their paths. 

“We want you to find your path. We want you to work within industries which best support your vision, your ideals, your passion. We want some of you to come to work within the public service.”

He said the platforms that are already there are everyday steps toward achieving a world-class public service. 

“The programmes, the projects, the ideas that we work on every single day can create an atmosphere for you; whether in law, whether in science, whether in security, there is a chance for everyone within the public service and also young adults to make contributions.”