Deputy Director of Education Dr. Jonah Greene has defended the Ministry of Education’s decision to merge Glanvilles and Pares Secondary Schools, stating the move is based on years of declining enrolment data and the need to provide equitable access to subject offerings.

Dr. Greene, speaking on the _Browne and Browne_ radio programme, explained that the consolidation—approved by Cabinet and scheduled to take effect in September—was guided by empirical data dating as far back as 2017.

“Every decision we make must be based on data,” she said. “If you look at the enrolment numbers from 2017 to 2024, you’ll see a steady decline. This year, for instance, only 26 students enrolled in first form at Glanvilles and 28 at Pares. That’s just over 50 students entering two entire secondary schools.”

The schools draw from a number of small feeder communities—such as Freetown, Newfield, and Parham—where population size is limited and more parents are opting to send their children to schools in urban areas.

“We’ve tracked the numbers from primary schools in the region and even checked private school enrolment for students living in the east. Even with additional efforts, we could only find 12 extra students in 2020 who were eligible to attend the eastern secondary schools,” Greene added.

Beyond numbers, Dr. Greene highlighted the inefficiencies and equity issues created by maintaining two underpopulated schools. “Each of these schools must have between 36 and 42 teachers to offer the full curriculum, regardless of student numbers. Together, Glanvilles and Pares currently employ 78 teachers for a student body of just over 280, once graduating fifth formers are excluded.”

By comparison, she noted, other schools such as Clare Hall and Princess Margaret have similar or slightly higher staffing levels but serve over 600 and 900 students respectively.

“Even if there are only two students who want to study chemistry, we are obligated to provide a teacher. You cannot deny a child the chance to become a scientist or doctor simply because they were placed in a small school,” she said.

Dr. Greene emphasized that the merger is about improving access and outcomes, not cost-cutting. “We’re ensuring that every child has access to the subjects and opportunities they deserve. This is about smart policy, guided by the numbers, to strengthen education in Antigua and Barbuda.”

The Pares campus will undergo renovations over the summer to accommodate the additional students. Meanwhile, the Glanvilles campus is set to be transformed into a School of Agriculture, offering technical and vocational education to meet the country’s growing need for food security and agricultural innovation.