Deputy Prime Minister Lauds Senior Minister Douglas’ 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 legacy in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The ceremony, steeped in national pride, celebrated Dr. Douglas’s transformative leadership, particularly in the realms of youth empowerment, technological advancement, and educational reform. The event served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact of visionary leadership on national development and the importance of education in shaping the future.

Established in 2009 during Dr. Douglas’s tenure as Prime Minister, Saddlers Secondary School was conceived as a multifaceted institution offering academic studies alongside technical and vocational training. This dual approach aimed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for a diverse range of career opportunities. The school also catered to adult learners, fostering an environment of intergenerational learning. This inclusive approach to education reflected Dr. Douglas’s commitment to empowering citizens of all ages, particularly within his constituency of Saint Christopher 6.

The renaming ceremony was a poignant moment for Dr. Douglas, who now serves as Senior Minister in the government led by Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew. He expressed immense gratitude for the honor, emphasizing that the occasion transcended personal recognition and symbolized the transformative power of education. Dr. Douglas’s humility underscored his belief that education is the cornerstone of societal progress and individual empowerment, a philosophy that defined his two decades of leadership. He dedicated the honor to the students, highlighting their role as the future beneficiaries of this educational legacy.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, delivered a heartfelt tribute, commending Dr. Douglas for his invaluable contributions to the nation’s development. He emphasized the former Prime Minister’s deep understanding of education’s role, not just as a reflection of the past, but as a beacon illuminating the path forward. Dr. Hanley positioned the renaming as an affirmation of the Ministry of Education’s commitment to recognizing and honoring individuals who have significantly advanced the nation’s progress. He described the event as a moment of profound pride for the Saddlers community and the entire nation, highlighting the school’s elevated status as a symbol of Dr. Douglas’s enduring impact.

The renaming ceremony served as a powerful message to the youth of Saint Kitts and Nevis, emphasizing that greatness stems from service and that the pursuit of excellence is a worthy and achievable goal. By associating the school with Dr. Douglas’s name, the government sought to inspire future generations to emulate his dedication to education and national development. The event effectively transformed the school into a living testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and the enduring importance of education in shaping a brighter future for the nation.

The ceremony was graced by a distinguished assembly of dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the occasion. Attendees included the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the National Assembly, members of the Cabinet, diplomats, senior government officials, the school’s staff and faculty, and, most importantly, the students themselves. This diverse gathering underscored the widespread recognition of Dr. Douglas’s contributions and the collective commitment to upholding his legacy of educational advancement and youth empowerment. The event solidified Dr. Douglas’s place in the nation’s history, transforming the school into a lasting symbol of his profound impact on Saint Kitts and Nevis.