The second academic term in Trinidad and Tobago commenced on January 5 with remarkably smooth operations across educational institutions, despite the temporary closure of the Ministry of Education’s headquarters. Both government authorities and the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) confirmed an essentially incident-free reopening day for ECCE, primary, and secondary schools nationwide.
The Ministry of Education’s Towers A and B in Port of Spain remained closed on the first day due to ongoing air-conditioning system repairs, with operations scheduled to resume on January 6. Nevertheless, the ministry issued an afternoon media release highlighting the successful start to Term II, emphasizing that teaching activities resumed without significant disruption across the country’s educational landscape.
Substantial infrastructure improvements preceded the term opening, with 82 approved projects completed between December 2025 and January 2026. The comprehensive enhancement initiative included 35 projects executed under the Vacation Repairs Programme and 47 emergency works addressing critical needs. These improvements encompassed roof and ceiling repairs, sewer and drainage system upgrades, washroom facility enhancements, air-conditioning unit maintenance, water line replacements, and electrical infrastructure modernization.
The National Schools Dietary Services Ltd (NSDSL) successfully resumed operations, delivering approximately 62,000 breakfasts and 75,000 lunches to students nationwide. Education Minister Michael Dowlath attributed the seamless reopening to coordinated planning among stakeholders, stating: ‘Education is a shared national responsibility, and this smooth reopening demonstrates what is possible when all stakeholders work together to keep our children learning, safe, and supported.’
TTUTA president Crystal Ashe reported that officers monitored all districts, including Tobago, with Richmond Street Boys’ Anglican School being the only institution remaining closed due to rat infestation concerns. Health and Education Ministry collaboration efforts are expected to facilitate the school’s reopening by January 7. While Barataria Boys’ RC Primary School faced sewer issues, it operated normally. Teacher attendance was notably high, though some student absences were observed—a customary first-day occurrence that Ashe emphasized should be addressed by parents recognizing the importance of every school day.
On security matters, Deputy Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin confirmed that monitoring programs reported no incidents, with Tranquillity Government Secondary School newly added to the list of institutions receiving police monitoring. The TTPS plans future meetings with the ministry to evaluate security measures and implement new initiatives as necessary.