The BVI government has committed $79.7 million to its education ministry for 2027, marking the highest funding level the Territory has ever directed to schools and youth development, Premier Natalio D. Wheatley said on Tuesday.
Wheatley unveiled the figure during his 2027 Budget Address presentation, held under the banner "Turning Progress into Prosperity: Building a Sustainable Nation." He described education as central to national progress, stating: "Education remains the foundation of our Territory's development, and my Government continues to demonstrate that conviction through the highest level of investment in education in the history of the Virgin Islands."
The money will flow to the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports and will support multiple priorities. Teacher development, professional growth and leadership training will receive backing alongside efforts to boost literacy and numeracy skills. The budget also emphasises technology in classrooms and inclusive learning for all students.
Tertiary pathways will expand through H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, where both academic and technical programmes will grow. The Let's Build VI Scholarship scheme will continue supporting students pursuing higher education.
Physical infrastructure improvements are planned across the school system, with rehabilitation and modernisation work intended to create safer and more conducive learning spaces throughout the Territory. Youth programmes will see sustained funding for leadership development and mentoring, while sports investment will target athlete preparation, facility upgrades and support for sporting bodies.
The 2026 school year has already delivered strong results, Wheatley noted, with public school students performing well academically and more young people accessing tertiary education. Facility improvements have also progressed.
Looking ahead, Wheatley stressed the government's commitment to building "stronger institutions, better learning environments, greater opportunities for our young people and the human capital that will shape the future of these Virgin Islands."
The allocation requires final approval from the House of Assembly when the 2027 Appropriation Act is voted on.
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