The Virgin Islands has officially launched its first National Student Government (NSG), bringing together student representatives from every secondary school in the Territory as well as HLSCC to form the first unified student leadership body at the national level.

The historic initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, was established to formally institutionalise student leadership and participation within the Territory’s education system. The launch marks the first time the Virgin Islands has created a structured national platform through which students can collectively represent their peers and contribute to conversations shaping the future of education.

The National Student Government provides a structured platform through which students can advocate for their peers, contribute ideas and engage directly with the Ministry on matters affecting their educational experience. The initiative also introduces students to the principles of civic leadership and governance, allowing them to participate in dialogue that helps shape the future of education in the Virgin Islands.

The launch ceremony, held on Monday, 23 March in the White Cedar Conference Room, formed part of the Territory’s observance of Education Month 2026, under the theme “Strong Foundations for a Future-Focused Generation.”

In providing an overview of the initiative, Chief Education Officer Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe described the National Student Government as a landmark step in strengthening student engagement within the Territory’s education system.

“The National Student Government is not symbolic. It is strategic,” Mrs. Crabbe said. “It ensures that student perspectives are not an afterthought but a driving force in shaping policy, reform and the overall educational experience.”

Mrs. Crabbe explained that the body operates through a representative model comprising student leaders from the Territory’s secondary schools and tertiary institution. Through this structure, the NSG will advocate on behalf of students, provide input on education policies and programmes, and facilitate dialogue between students, schools and the Ministry of Education.

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro described the launch as a signal that the Territory is moving toward a more inclusive and student-centred future.

“Today is a signal that something is shifting,” the Minister said. “We are moving into something bold and intentional that places young people not on the sidelines, but at the centre of what comes next.”

Honourable de Castro encouraged members of the inaugural National Student Government to approach their roles with confidence and purpose, noting that the platform provides an opportunity for students to actively contribute to shaping the future of education in the Virgin Islands.

“I am here to listen,” the she stated. “Bring your ideas, bring your concerns and bring your solutions. This is not a one-way conversation. This is a partnership.”

A highlight of the ceremony was the pinning and introduction of the inaugural members of the National Student Government, who will serve as representatives for schools across the Territory.

Delivering the student response, National Student Government President Miss Waynella Moore described the moment as a milestone for young people in the Virgin Islands.

“Today we create history,” Miss Moore said. “This moment proves that young people are not simply watching the future unfold. We are shaping it.”

Miss Moore said the National Student Government will serve as a bridge between students and decision-makers while championing initiatives that strengthen schools and empower young people across the Territory.

“This National Student Government is more than a council,” she said. “It is a platform, a bridge and a promise that student voices will be heard.”

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports noted that the establishment of the National Student Government reflects its continued commitment to developing confident leaders, responsible citizens and active contributors to national development.

Members – National Student Government

President

Waynella Moore

Vice President 

Rudell Stoute

Secretary General

Jana Peters

Assistant Secretary

Arabel Pickering

Policy and Advocacy Officer

Kassidy George

Events and Outreach Officer

Zhane Walters 

Communications Officer

Kellycian Paul

Communications Officer

Malia Choucoutou 

Member

Arianna Tillack

Member

Chandre Liburd 

Member

Kaadi-Ann Stevens 

Member

Keandre Matthew 

Member

Kimoyah Smith