Government Notebook (Jul. 24, 2026)

Taiwan Technical Mission and Department of Agriculture advance food security with Dragon Fruit and Guava harvest

The Taiwan Technical Mission, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security, recently hosted a harvesting exercise and officially commissioned a new seedling nursery dedicated to the propagation of dragon fruit and grafted guava. The initiative forms part of the Enhancement of the Efficiency of Production and Distribution Supply Chain in the Fruits and Vegetables Sector Project, commonly known as the Seven Crops Project. More info: https://www.govt.lc/news/taiwan-technical-mission-and-department-of-agriculture-advance-food-security-with-dragon-fruit-and-guava-harvest

Summer Camps open across Saint Lucia, equipping youth with skills for success

Hundreds of young people across Saint Lucia have begun benefiting from a series of summer camps designed to build confidence, strengthen life skills, and create positive pathways for personal development. More info: https://www.govt.lc/news/summer-camps-open-across-saint-lucia-equipping-youth-with-skills-for-success [https://www.govt.lc/news/summer-camps-open-across-saint-lucia-equipping-youth-with-skills-for-success]

CXC Announces Major Changes to School-Based Assessments

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced reforms to its School-Based Assessment (SBA) system to protect academic integrity amid the growing use of artificial intelligence. Traditional SBAs will be replaced with an enhanced Paper 3/2 assessment for non-practical subjects, allowing students to prepare in advance and bring reference notes into supervised examinations. The phased rollout will provide schools, teachers, and students with time and guidance to adapt to the new assessment model.

Cybersecurity Forum Strengthens Regional Digital Resilience

Government officials, regional experts, and stakeholders gathered at a cybersecurity forum aimed at strengthening cyber resilience as Saint Lucia advances its digital transformation agenda. ICT Project Manager Johannith Khodra emphasized that strong cyber governance and collaboration across government, organizations, and communities are essential to protecting critical digital infrastructure and maintaining public trust.

CIP Revenue Continues to Support National Development

Investment Minister Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire says revenue generated through Saint Lucia's Citizenship by Investment Programme remains an important source of non-tax income that helps finance healthcare, infrastructure, and other national development priorities. While CIP contributes less than ten percent of government revenue, he noted that the programme reduces pressure on taxpayers and acknowledged the need for greater public awareness of how these funds are invested.