Deputy Prime Minister Commends Senior Minister Douglas’s Visionary Leadership at School Renaming Ceremony

The renaming of Saddlers Secondary School to the Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas Secondary School on September 1, 2025, marked a significant tribute to the former Prime Minister’s enduring impact on education, youth empowerment, and technological advancement in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Established in 2009 as the Federation’s seventh high school, Saddlers Secondary was conceived as a multifaceted institution catering to academic pursuits, technical and vocational training, and adult education. This forward-thinking approach reflected Dr. Douglas’s vision of holistic citizen empowerment, particularly within his constituency of Saint Christopher 6. The school’s unique focus on intergenerational learning further solidified its position as a community hub and testament to Dr. Douglas’s commitment to lifelong learning.

The renaming ceremony was imbued with a profound sense of national pride, recognizing Dr. Douglas’s two decades of transformative leadership as Prime Minister. Now serving as Senior Minister, Dr. Douglas expressed his deep gratitude for the honour, emphasizing that the renaming was not solely about him, but rather a celebration of the power of education to uplift communities and individuals. He directed his message to the students present, highlighting their potential and the importance of their role in the nation’s future. The occasion underscored the school’s role as a symbol of progress and opportunity for the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis, particularly the youth.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, eloquently articulated the significance of the renaming, emphasizing Dr. Douglas’s profound understanding of education’s role in shaping the future. Dr. Hanley lauded Dr. Douglas’s commitment to national development, highlighting how his legacy has been intricately woven into the fabric of the nation’s progress. The renaming, according to Dr. Hanley, not only elevates the stature of the school but also reaffirms the Ministry of Education’s dedication to honouring individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation’s advancement.

The ceremony was not merely a celebration of the past, but also a powerful message for the future. Dr. Hanley underscored the importance of service and the pursuit of excellence as guiding principles for the students. The Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas Secondary School now stands as a beacon, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The occasion served as a poignant reminder that education is not merely a means to an end, but a transformative force that empowers individuals and shapes the destiny of nations.

The event drew a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, reflecting the national importance of the occasion. Her Excellency, the Governor-General, the Honourable Prime Minister, the Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Cabinet Members, diplomats, and senior government officials were all present to witness the historic renaming. Their presence underscored the widespread recognition of Dr. Douglas’s contributions and the symbolic significance of the school in representing his enduring legacy.

The renaming of Saddlers Secondary School to the Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas Secondary School stands as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership in education. Dr. Douglas’s commitment to youth empowerment, technological advancement, and educational reform is enshrined in the very name of the institution, serving as a constant source of inspiration for current and future generations. The school now bears the name of a leader who understood the importance of investing in education as a cornerstone of national development and societal progress, a legacy that will continue to resonate within the halls of the newly renamed institution.