In a significant move to bolster educational development, the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA) has allocated EC$50,000 from its Tourism Enhancement Fund to Bocage Secondary School. The investment, formally presented on February 13, aims to strengthen institutional programs designed to equip students with essential skills and create meaningful pathways into the workforce, particularly within Saint Lucia’s expanding tourism and hospitality industry.
SLHTA Chief Executive Officer Noorani Azeez characterized the initiative as part of the association’s broader 2026 commitment to deepen community impact. He emphasized collaborative partnerships with educators, whom he described as “the exceptional heroes in our schools,” noting that teachers and principals play a crucial role in understanding student aspirations and needs. Azeez explained that the funding is intended to make classroom engagement more interactive and learning more profound, ultimately preparing students for substantial contributions to the national economy.
Highlighting tourism’s projected expansion in coming years, Azeez stressed the importance of early student exposure to industry opportunities. This allows young learners to “see the reach of the tourism dollar” and experience how strategic investments can directly impact their dreams and career goals. While the EC$50,000 donation represents a substantial initial commitment, Azeez described it as “the tip of that iceberg,” signaling the beginning of a long-term partnership with educational institutions.
At Bocage Secondary School, the funding will directly enhance several targeted programs including special education, remedial instruction, and extracurricular initiatives. Zenith Duncan, the teacher overseeing special and remedial education programs, detailed how the resources will address specific challenges. Her remedial program supports over 30 students requiring foundational literacy and numeracy skills through a whole-school approach where teachers across disciplines provide targeted tutoring.
The special education department, serving students with conditions including Down syndrome and autism, will benefit from specialized resources. Duncan noted that sound-cancelling headphones will help students with sensory sensitivities maintain focus in classroom environments. Additional support will address penmanship issues and concentration challenges through practical interventions. The school’s feeding mural, robotics, and arts programs will also receive substantial enhancements from the SLHTA contribution, creating a more comprehensive educational experience for all students.