Educators celebrated in Hanover as they gathered for the official relaunch of the Lucea Infant School on Thursday, April 21. Through a partnership with the Digicel Foundation and the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), the school was extensively renovated over the last six months.

The Digicel Foundation has been a partner of the ECC over the past five years, investing $127.3 million in the renovation of early childhood institutions, with a goal of getting more schools up to code and certified. The Lucea Infant School is the seventh renovation project completed under the partnership and the first in Hanover.

“Today is an excellent day in Hanover,” noted Dr Michelle Pinnock, director of Region Four at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, as she spoke to a room of guests which included the principals of Rusea’s High School and Lucea Primary School. Speaking to the Digicel Foundation, Pinnock remarked: “We do appreciate all that you have done for us.”

In her remarks, chairperson of the Digicel Foundation Jean Lowrie-Chin noted: “We are happy that the Digicel Foundation could play its part in this increased focus on early childhood education. The early years of a child are the most formative, and we must do everything in our power to ensure that no one is left behind in our education system.”

The students who attended the handover were equally as eager as their teachers and administrators, as they took to the stage to thank the Digicel Foundation for investing in them and their school.

“We can assure you that we will always have extraordinary days and we play and learn. Thank you,” exclaimed two young girls, in unison, as they represented the student body and delivered a vote of thanks.

Students will return to the newly renovated school for the final term to find a building that has been re-tiled, re-roofed and repainted. Additional repairs included the repaving of the driveway and inner courtyard, electrical upgrades and installation of a perimeter fence to enhance school security. An outdoor play area was also created to encourage play as an integral part of early childhood development.