Concerns raised over lack of data on dropout rates and truancy

Territorial At-Large Representative Stacy ‘Buddha’ Mather has criticised the Ministry of Education for not providing current data on student truancy and dropout rates in the BVI.

During a recent JTV News interview with members of the newly formed opposition “Alliance” group, Mather expressed concern over the absence of up-to-date statistics, questioning the transparency and accountability of the education sector.

“When you’re asking questions and the Minister says she’s reimagining education and it’s data-driven, where is the data for dropout rates? Where’s the data for truancy?” Mather asked. “Because if we have crime in the country, how are we gathering data?”

He argued that without accurate information, it is difficult to assess the state of the education system and implement effective strategies to support at-risk students.

The criticism follows a recent exchange in the House of Assembly, where Mather pressed Education Minister Sharie deCastro for information on dropout rates and truancy. According to Mather, deCastro admitted that the Ministry only recognised the need for such data in January 2025. He remarked, “That was last month. So what have you been doing as the Minister in terms of trying to push these things forward?”

The debate over education data also arose amid questions about the Ministry’s travel budget, which Mather linked to the frustrations expressed by teachers and parents about the lack of essential school supplies. “I have teachers that come to me… they’re asking me about photocopiers, they’re asking me about toiletries, they’re asking me about supplies,” Mather explained. He questioned the frequency of travel by the Education Minister and officials, suggesting a misalignment of priorities.

During the House of Assembly sitting, Mather’s questions about the travel budget led to a tense exchange when he requested precise answers in line with the HOA’s standing orders. “I just wanted to ask questions to get an answer… But there seemed to be some discomfort in asking that question,”  Mather explained.

Education Minister Sharie deCastro has been vocal about her vision for reimagining education in the BVI, emphasising a data-driven approach. However, the absence of relevant data on dropout rates and truancy has raised concerns. Without accurate figures, it is challenging to identify trends, allocate resources effectively, and implement targeted interventions to address student disengagement.

Historically, the BVI has struggled with student absenteeism and dropouts. In September 2021, then-Leader of the Opposition Marlon Penn raised concerns about rising dropout rates, attributing them to factors such as poor internet connectivity and limited parental supervision. At that time, then-Education Minister Dr Natalio Wheatley reported 13 dropouts across all public secondary schools and an overall absenteeism rate of seven per cent.