Kwéyòl in the Classroom: A New Era for Saint Lucian Education

A Historic Step Towards Preserving Our Heritage

As parents, we want the best for our children. We strive to provide them with a quality education that equips them for the future. In Saint Lucia, this commitment extends beyond academic excellence to the preservation of our rich cultural heritage.

For decades, there has been a growing movement to incorporate our Indigenous Kwéyòl language into the school curriculum. Kwéyòl is more than just a language; it's a vital part of our history, culture, and identity. It's the language of our ancestors, passed down through generations, and it continues to shape our way of life.

A Milestone Achievement

In a historic announcement on Emancipation Day in 2022, Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pirre declared that Kwéyòl would be integrated into the school curriculum. This landmark decision marked a significant step towards recognizing the importance of our Indigenous language and preserving it for future generations.

Kwéyòl in the Classroom

Just two years later, Minister for Education, Hon. Shawn Edward, confirmed the exciting news that the Saint Lucia Kwéyòl Curriculum Pilot Programme would be implemented in 15 local schools starting in the 2024/25 academic year. This means that for the first time, our children will have the opportunity to learn and engage with Kwéyòl in a formal educational setting.

A Commitment to Our Heritage

By including Kwéyòl instructions in the national school curriculum, the government is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to preserving our heritage for future generations. This initiative not only promotes cultural diversity but also fosters a sense of pride and belonging among our youth.

A Bright Future for Kwéyòl

As parents, we can support this groundbreaking initiative by encouraging our children to embrace Kwéyòl and celebrate our cultural heritage. By learning Kwéyòl, our children will not only develop a deeper understanding of their roots but also gain valuable language skills that can benefit them in various aspects of life.

Let's work together to ensure that Kwéyòl thrives in our schools and continues to be a vibrant part of Saint Lucia's identity. The future of our language is in our hands.