CDEMA Model Safe School Programme: Enhancing School Safety in the Caribbean

Introduction

The CDEMA Model Safe School Programme is a comprehensive initiative that supports schools in implementing risk management strategies and preparing for emergencies. Environmental Solutions Limited was contracted by CDEMA to develop or enhance national safe school policies in four Caribbean Development Bank Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs), conduct hazard assessments for 33 schools across six BMCs, and prepare costed action plans based on assessment findings.

Handing-Over Ceremony

On February 21, 2025, the Ministry of Education in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) hosted a brief handing-over ceremony to distribute the equipment to two schools on Nevis: Charlestown Secondary School and Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School.

Fire Extinguishers

Thirty-six fire extinguishers were handed over to the schools, to be shared between the two institutions. The extinguishers included three types: a 10-pound ABC-grade fire extinguisher, a 10-pound CO2 fire extinguisher, and a Class K fire extinguisher.

Importance of Fire Safety

Education Officer Tamicia Lestrade emphasized the importance of fire safety in school disaster risk management. She noted that the provision of these resources is more than just a delivery of equipment, but rather a demonstration of proactive disaster preparedness and a collective commitment to minimizing risk within schools.

Conclusion

The CDEMA Model Safe School Programme is a vital initiative that aims to enhance school safety in the Caribbean. The handing-over ceremony marked a significant milestone in this effort, as it marked the distribution of critical equipment to two schools on Nevis. We commend the Ministry of Education, CDEMA, the European Union, the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery, and the World Bank for their contributions to school safety in the Caribbean.

FAQs

What is the CDEMA Model Safe School Programme? The CDEMA Model Safe School Programme is a comprehensive initiative that supports schools in implementing risk management strategies and preparing for emergencies.
What was the purpose of the handing-over ceremony? The ceremony marked the distribution of fire extinguishers to two schools on Nevis, Charlestown Secondary School and Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School, as part of the CDEMA Model Safe School Programme.
What types of fire extinguishers were handed over? Three types of fire extinguishers were handed over: a 10-pound ABC-grade fire extinguisher, a 10-pound CO2 fire extinguisher, and a Class K fire extinguisher.