BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WITH remediation work at the Basseterre High School (BHS) progressing well, Minister of Education the Hon. Nigel Carty has indicated that the grounds should be ready for the opening of the new school term next week.
A press conference which was held last week featured presentations by Carty and epidemiologist attached to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Dr. Babatunde Olowokure, during which the latter gave an update on the progress being made at the school.
The doctor said work that has already been completed includes: major improvements to the laboratories; damp material – including books – have been disposed of, thereby reducing the likelihood of growing mould; pest control measures have been implemented; mould has been removed from the Theatre Arts Office and the school’s septic system has been checked and no leakages were reported.
He said however that soil samples were lifted from nine different areas at the school and a high coliform (a type of bacteria) count was found in one of the samples. He said recommendations have been made for repeat testing of that area.
“Overall…based on the recommendation we have made, we find the current remediation being conducted in the school to be satisfactory and we would like to commend all involved for playing their role in an effort to respond to this particular situation. From our experience, my personal experience, as well as that of my colleague…and the scientific evidence, what we know is that remediation activities – once they are carried out in situations like this – there tends to then be a significant decrease in the health complaints in the staff as well as the students.”
Minister Carty told the media that judging from progress that has already been made, it is hoped and expected that come September 1, the gates of the BHS would be open. And barring that, other arrangements can be made.
“I understand and appreciate that we have to appreciate all reasonable eventualities and of course we are very convinced – based upon the progress we have made – that the outstanding work that we have should be completed within the next week or so.
“But if in the unlikely event that is not completed…I don’t think it would hurt to delay school by a few days or a week to ensure that we have those items cleared, bearing in mind that we can always extend the school term for the Basseterre High School either this term or next term to ensure that anytime that is needed to complete the academic requirements for students can be had…”
He said the shift system - as was implemented with the Washington Archibald High School earlier this year when the BHS was closed for testing - could be again instituted if necessary.
Dr. Olowokure said the general “tidying up” of the environment at the BHS continues with the removal of shrubbery from some areas to reduce the breeding of pests and the painting of some areas still needing to be done.
He informed that, “CARIRI are also on site carrying out their tests to look at the quality of the air in various parts of the school.”
CARPHA – according to Minister Carty – would advise the Ministry of Education on whether or not the BHS would be fit for use come September 1.
