Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, during her inaugural official visit to Tobago, unveiled a comprehensive plan to revitalize the island’s education system and create new opportunities for its youth. Speaking at Signal Hill Secondary School on November 4, she emphasized her government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring no child is left behind, regardless of their circumstances. The Prime Minister’s visit marked a significant moment, as it was her first official trip to Tobago since assuming office in April. Addressing a diverse audience of students, including those from primary, secondary, early childhood, and special needs schools, Persad-Bissessar announced several key initiatives. She pledged support for the Signal Hill Secondary Cultural Group to perform in an African country next year, a promise that resonated deeply with the students. Additionally, she revealed that every Form One student at the school would receive a laptop under the government’s Digital Learning Initiative by the end of the academic year. Reflecting on her own humble beginnings, Persad-Bissessar shared personal anecdotes about her childhood in Siparia, where she walked barefoot to school on muddy roads. She credited her mother’s belief in education as a transformative force for her success. The Prime Minister also outlined plans to strengthen early childhood education, including training 500 teachers in AI-supported lesson planning to foster innovation in classrooms. She highlighted the importance of reviving the laptop program, which had been discontinued, and stressed its critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Persad-Bissessar further emphasized expanded opportunities in tertiary and vocational education through institutions like the University of Trinidad and Tobago and the College of Science, Technology, and Applied Arts. She also reaffirmed her commitment to special needs education, pledging to revive the national network of enrichment centers for children with disabilities. In her closing remarks, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to parents and teachers for their dedication and vowed that Tobago would never be overlooked again. Quoting Nelson Mandela, she underscored the importance of investing in children as a reflection of society’s soul.