News

 Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Digital Transformation Senator Hon. Lavern King, says government is taking a more strategic approach to scholarships and skills development, with a strong focus on digital transformation and critical workforce gaps.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, 25th  March, 2026 at Cabinet Room Senator King said recent discussions have examined how education policy can better align with national development needs, particularly in areas where Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) face skill shortages.

Senator King said that one such area of scholarship focus by this government is Pharmacology. The Minister noted that the deficit has become quite evident at the Cabinet level, where work permits and visas are frequently approved for foreign professionals to fill roles in the sector.

She explained that the issue was also raised during consultations with private sector stakeholders, including pharmacy owners, who have consistently highlighted the need for more locally trained pharmacists.

Senator King was part of a delegation that recently returned from the Republic of Chin (Taiwan) and was made up of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Disaster Management and Immigration Major St. Clair Leacock, Wife of the Deputy Prime Minister Margaret Leacock and Minister of Social Welfare and Community Empowerment, Ecclesiastical Affairs and National Heritage, Shevern John.

SOURCE: Agency for Public Information (API)