Dr. Geoffrey Hanley Commends Essay Winners and Reaffirms Vision for National History Curriculum

The UNESCO Essay Competition Announcement Ceremony, held in Basseterre, St. Kitts, on July 2, 2025, served as a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of students and reaffirm the Ministry of Education’s commitment to integrating African ancestral history and the heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis into the national curriculum. The competition, themed “The Importance and Value of Students Being Taught Their African Ancestral History,” was jointly organized by the St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO and the UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples Committee. The event brought together students, educators, parents, and national dignitaries to acknowledge the winners and underscore the significance of embracing cultural heritage in education. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, lauded the participants and emphasized the transformative potential of culturally relevant education in shaping a brighter future for the nation.

Dr. Hanley extended heartfelt congratulations to the top three winners, Markailer Handley, Khalaylah Maccabee, and Devine James, while acknowledging the commendable efforts of all participating students. He highlighted the ceremony as a pivotal moment in the nation’s educational advancement, marking the beginning of a national conversation in support of the Ministry’s vision to implement a mandatory course on Saint Kitts and Nevis Studies. This initiative aims to instill cultural awareness and pride in students, strengthening their sense of identity and connection to their heritage. Dr. Hanley reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to honoring the legacy of their ancestors who championed education as a tool for liberation and empowerment.

Drawing inspiration from Marcus Garvey’s powerful words, “A people without knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots,” Dr. Hanley emphasized the importance of understanding one’s historical and cultural roots. He advocated for a philosophy of education that fosters cultural awareness and pride in African heritage, believing that this approach can effectively address societal challenges such as crime and delinquency. By equipping students with a deep understanding of their history, the Ministry aims to cultivate positive values, attitudes, and ambitions that will contribute to a safer and more progressive society.

The introduction of Saint Kitts and Nevis Studies in all secondary schools represents a significant step towards achieving this goal. This initiative seeks to empower students with a comprehensive understanding of their nation’s history, culture, and heritage, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and identity. By connecting students to their roots, the Ministry hopes to inspire a generation of informed, engaged, and responsible citizens who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation as a whole.

Dr. Hanley expressed sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the essay competition. He acknowledged the patronage of Her Excellency, Dame Marcella Liburd, Governor-General of Saint Kitts and Nevis, for elevating the initiative’s national prominence. He also commended Ambassador Nerys Dockery and the UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples Committee for their invaluable leadership, and the Curriculum Development Unit for their guidance in shaping the future direction of the program.

Encouraging educators to embrace innovative teaching methods, such as the “Rooted” learning approach, Dr. Hanley emphasized the importance of engaging students in a way that deepens their appreciation for their heritage. This approach emphasizes the importance of connecting learning to students’ lived experiences and cultural backgrounds, making education more relevant and meaningful. He envisioned a future generation of young people who are proud of their heritage, confident in their abilities, and equipped to shape the future of their nation. Dr. Hanley reiterated the Ministry of Education and UNESCO’s unwavering commitment to creating a culturally rich, empowering, and inclusive educational environment for all students in Saint Kitts and Nevis, ensuring that education serves as a catalyst for positive social transformation and national development.