All primary and secondary schools in Tobago reopened on Monday, despite many still undergoing repairs.
According to Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, work on schools across the island began late during the July/August vacation due to delays in the procurement process.
Speaking with TTT News, Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) Tobago Officer Deon Rodriguez said he visited several schools on Monday to verify that students and teachers were able to learn and work in a safe and healthy environment.
Rodriguez said that while he appreciates the Division of Education, Innovation and Energy’s swift response in carrying out repairs, he will not be satisfied until all outstanding maintenance issues are fully addressed, particularly those involving mould, termite infestations and bathroom facilities.
The TTUTA Tobago officer also stressed that the Education Division must do a better job of engaging with schools in advance to ensure they are fully prepared to accommodate students and teachers.
He noted that outstanding repairs will continue during evenings and weekends to minimise disruptions to classes.