News

Students and teachers at the Berean Christian Academy can look forward to a more comfortable learning environment in the upcoming academic year, thanks to the commissioning of a brand-new school extension. The project was made possible through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), a collaboration between the Government of Dominica and the Caribbean Development Bank.

The project, officially opened during a celebratory ceremony, includes an additional classroom, kitchenette, and modern washroom facilities designed for both students and staff.

The expansion project, which began with an application in 2020, was warmly welcomed by the school’s community and government representatives. Project Manager of BNTF, Mr. Matthew Carrette, described the occasion as a “time of celebration” and a testament to perseverance.

“Occasions like this are very special for us at BNTF,” Mr. Carrette said. “We faced setbacks, but after five years, we now see the smile on the principal’s face, and that makes all the effort worthwhile.”

He emphasized that the $400,000 investment may be modest in comparison to other BNTF projects but carries immense value. “You cannot put a price on education. This project provides a foundation for students to realize their curriculum, and that is what BNTF is about turning dreams into reality.”

The extension is the first of seven community projects being undertaken under BNTF 10, which falls under three key categories: education and human resource development, water and sanitation, and basic community infrastructure.

Principal of Berean Christian Academy, Ms. Sarah Thomas, offered a deeply personal and heartfelt note of gratitude, recalling that the application for the extension was originally submitted by her mother in 2020. 

“Sometimes things look dark and hopeless, but God does amazing things,” she reflected. “This building extension is not just a physical structure — it is a testament to partnership, purpose, and the power of collaboration.”

She thanked all stakeholders including the Caribbean Development Bank, the BNTF office in Dominica, the Government of Dominica, and contractors Sorel Consulting Ltd. for completing the project in record time.

Member of Parliament for the Roseau South Constituency, Hon. Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite, hailed the extension as a “beacon of hope, opportunity, and growth” for the community. She stressed its impact beyond academics.

“This extension brings access to inclusive spaces where every child can feel safe, valued, and inspired,” she stated. “It will be a hub of creativity and connection, a promise that we believe in building a tomorrow that begins today.”

Minister for Education, Hon. Octavia Alfred, praised the school’s unique approach and reiterated the government's commitment to early childhood education.

“Berean is one of the few schools that truly makes children feel unique,” she said. “They work at their own pace, in their cubicles, not to compete — but to succeed. Early childhood is the foundation of lifelong learning, and that is why projects like this are so important.”

Minister Alfred also emphasized that the government is striving for universal access to early childhood education, noting that “scholarship begins at preschool.”

Hon. Gretta Roberts, Minister for Community Development, applauded the role of BNTF and the Caribbean Development Bank in supporting grassroots development.

“Almost every community across Dominica has benefited from a BNTF-funded project since its inception in 1979,” Minister Roberts noted. “This one in Bath Estate adds value not just in classroom space, but as a shelter during disasters, and a center for community resilience.”

She revealed that the total cost of all BNTF 10 projects island-wide is approximately $6.57 million, and that more funding is already committed under BNTF 11.

The Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) is a poverty reduction initiative funded primarily by the Caribbean Development Bank with support from the Government of Dominica. It focuses on community-driven development through projects in education, water and sanitation, and local infrastructure. Since 1979, BNTF has played a pivotal role in improving lives and communities across the island.