Grenada Extends Mandatory School Age to 17 Under New Education Policy

Grenada: The government of Grenada has issued a new policy to extend the mandatory school age to 17, which officially came into effect with the launch of the new academic year on 1^st September 2024.

The change has been issued under the education amendment bill and raises the compulsory school age from one year, which previously ranged between 5 to 16 years.

The government of Grenada with the launch of a new academic term has also launched several other initiatives including training for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) teachers, introducing a free tuition program, and developing crucial strategies to increase access to education.

The Minister of Education and Senator, David Andrew stated that the government is also actively pursuing partnerships with NTA-approved technical service providers in order to provide the students with additional skills and knowledge.

“Education at the T.A. Marry show Community College (TAMCC), the New Life Organisations (NEWLO), and St. George University, the Government is actively pursuing partnerships with NTA-approved technical service providers to offer students additional skills training opportunities,” said the authorities.

Notably, this initiative led by the authorities aims at addressing critical issues that confront the development of the nation. The bill was led for debate and approval back in June by the Minister of Health, Philip Telesford.

“By raising it to 17, it suggests that a youngster should stay in school until he or she reaches age 17. This bill is significant because it lays the groundwork to begin addressing some critical issues that confront us in our growing economy and developing island,” he said in the parliament.

Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell was also present at the debate and during his part, he stated that the amendment is part of the government’s efforts to deal with educational facilities in Grenada.

“You should not be given the option to leave the educational system. There is a misconception that compulsory education ends after secondary school, yet this is one of the challenges we face in the education system,” PM Mitchell said.

Notably, the bill was approved after a debate on June 6^th during the sitting of the upper house. This new initiative is a part of government efforts in the betterment of educational facilities and aims to cater best to their citizens.