By Val Matthias. Updated 12:20 p.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Opposition Leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves visited the Questelles Primary School on Tuesday morning, following Monday’s fire that destroyed classrooms and the school’s kitchen. The blaze has displaced 98 students just days before the new school term.
Dr. Gonsalves was met at the school by state officials and the Minister of Education, Phillip Jackson. After exchanging greetings, he offered suggestions on the way forward based on his observations and initial assessment of the damage.
“The setback is real, but we have encountered such challenges before,” Dr. Gonsalves said. He expressed optimism that the affected students could return to classrooms in the shortest possible time.
One of the alternatives Dr Gonsalves spoke about was a timber construction within two weeks on the compound that can accommodate those that were displaced.
The fire, which began late Monday afternoon, gutted the roof of a block housing Grade 3 and Grade 4 classrooms, along with the kitchen that provides meals for disadvantaged students. The Fire Brigade has launched an investigation into the cause.
Minister Jackson confirmed that the Ministry of Education is exploring temporary arrangements to ensure continuity of learning. Plans are also being considered to restore meal services for students who rely on the school’s kitchen.
Authorities are expected to announce relocation plans for the displaced students in the coming days. Dr. Gonsalves emphasized that swift action is necessary to minimize disruption and maintain confidence in the education system.
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