The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, will officially open the newly rebuilt Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre (EHRLC) on Monday, 13th October.

This opening marks a significant moment in advancing educational access for students with diverse learning needs, as the Territory celebrates the establishment of a permanent, purpose-built space dedicated to supporting inclusive education.

While students have begun using portions of the facility, the official ceremony will commemorate the fulfillment of a long-awaited vision for the centre. Founded in 1972 as the Fort Charlotte Children’s Centre, the institution has played an important role in the education system for over five decades. Throughout its history, the school adapted to several relocations, reflecting the ongoing commitment of educators, families, and the wider community to ensuring consistent care and learning support for its students.

The new learning centre offers four classrooms, two exterior learning spaces, a sensory room, therapy room, a media rooma multipurpose hall,  hygiene room, nurse’s station and quiet areas for reflection in the rain and sensory garden. These spaces were designed to support a wide range of learning styles and create a safe, accessible environment that reflects the principles of inclusive education.

Remarks at the ceremony will be delivered by:

• Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley
• Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro
• Minister of Communication and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer
• Division Chief, Social Sector Division, Caribbean Development Bank Dr. Martin Baptiste,
• Mr. Jerry Samuel, Chairman – RDA Board of Directors
• General Manager, Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd. Mr. Dion Crabbe

This project was implemented by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), with architectural design led by Lavina Liburd, Founder of TigerQi Architecture, and construction executed by Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd., under the leadership of General Manager Dion Crabbe.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports reaffirms its commitment to creating inclusive, modern learning spaces that empower every child to thrive.