By Sue-Ann Wayow

THERE was a successful re-opening of the new school term on Monday.

This is according to the Ministry of Education who issued a media release on Monday afternoon.

The ministry stated that schools across all levels were re-opened on schedule with teaching and learning resuming without major disruption nationwide.

In preparation for the reopening of schools, the ministry approved a total of 82 infrastructure projects during the period December 2025 to January 2026.

Of those, 35 projects were executed under the ministry’s Vacation Repairs Programme (VRP), while an additional 47 projects were completed as emergency works at Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) centres, as well as primary and secondary schools.

The release stated, “The scope of works included repairs to roofs and ceilings, sewer and drainage systems, washroom facilities, air-conditioning units, water lines, and electrical infrastructure. These repairs were successfully implemented in collaboration with the National Maintenance Training Services (MTS).”

Additionally, operations of the National Schools Dietary Services Limited (NSDSL) resumed successfully.

Approximately 62,000 breakfasts and 75,000 lunches were delivered to pupils, with 67 kitchens fully operational across the country.

The release stated, “The ministry attributes the positive start to the term to coordinated planning, proactive school leadership and the continued dedication and commitment of principals, teachers, support staff, parents, and students.”

The ministry further confirmed that school supervision, support services and district-level monitoring remained active to ensure that any emerging concerns were addressed promptly.

The Ministry of Education extended  thanks to all stakeholders for their continued cooperation and encouraged parents and guardians to maintain close engagement with schools in support of student attendance and achievement throughout the term.

And although Education Towers A and B in Port of Spain were closed on Monday due to repairs to the air-conditioning system, normal operations are expected to resume on Tuesday.