Cabinet Moves Education Projects into Active Phase Following Technical Review

The findings of a completed geotechnical study have triggered key structural refinements and procurement steps, pushing two major education infrastructure projects closer to construction.

Cabinet this week received a detailed technical and procurement update on the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and the construction of the new Five Islands Primary School, with officials indicating that both projects are transitioning from planning into more active implementation phases.

Technical teams confirmed that amendments were made to the school’s structural and foundation designs after the geotechnical assessment identified the need for enhanced containment and support systems at the site.

With approval from the client, the contractor was authorized to explore a more cost-effective alternative. A steel-frame structural configuration has since been proposed and is currently under review.

The Ministry of Works has completed its evaluation of the revised foundation drawings for the steel-frame option and has signaled satisfaction with the documentation. The Board of Education will now act as supervisory consultants, undertaking its own technical review and engaging the contractor to resolve outstanding issues before construction advances.

Officials emphasized that while the architectural design remains largely intact, adjustments to structural and foundational components are necessary to ensure durability, safety and cost efficiency.

International architectural firm KSS continues to collaborate with local and regional professionals on the project. A final design meeting with consultants is scheduled for next week. Once structural approvals are secured, construction activity is expected to accelerate.

Meanwhile, progress is also advancing on the expansion of the UWI Five Islands Campus. Cabinet was advised that the Request for Proposals (RFP) documentation has been reviewed and returned for corrections and updates. Upon resubmission and approval by financing and oversight bodies, the project will be issued for both local and international tender.

Officials anticipate that the tender process could begin in early March. Shortlisted international contractors will be given a 60-day window to submit bids once the final documentation is approved.

Based on current projections, ground-breaking activities could commence during the summer.

Cabinet underscored that the two initiatives represent critical investments in the modernization of Antigua and Barbuda’s educational infrastructure, aimed at providing safe, resilient and high-quality learning environments for students at both primary and tertiary levels.