St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – October 16, 2026 – For a child discovering new
possibilities, technology can make learning an adventure. For a woman seeking to improve her employment prospects, access to education can be the first step towards a more secure future.
At Mill Academy, both possibilities are taking shape following an EC $38,000 investment by the Sandals Foundation in a state-of-the-art smart classroom that will enhance learning for students while supporting an adult education programme designed to strengthen skills, qualifications and employment readiness within the surrounding community. The upgraded classroom space now features an interactive smart board, more than a dozen tablets, stylus pens, camera and sound device, wireless keyboards, headphones and modern furniture, creating a contemporary learning environment that encourages greater interaction, exploration and engagement.
For Principal Kisma Panthier-Jn Pierre, the investment supports the school’s commitment to educational excellence while advancing a vision that extends beyond its student population.
“We take great pride in the quality of education we provide at Mill Academy, and this investment gives us another way to ensure that our students benefit from engaging, innovative learning experiences that prepare them for an increasingly digital world.”
Panthier-Jn Pierre says the enhanced educational experience will serve as a multifunctional space, providing significant value to the community.
”Our responsibility as an educational institution does not end with the children who walk through our doors each day. We recognize that there are adults in our community, particularly women and young single mothers, who may not have had the opportunity to complete their secondary education or obtain the qualifications needed to pursue sustainable employment.
We want to help change that. Our Adult Booster Course which is a 2-year program brings together academic instruction, practical digital skills, communication training and mentorship. It is about giving participants the support they need to strengthen their qualifications, build confidence and take meaningful steps towards their personal and professional goals and this space will help us do just that. ,” Panthier-Jn Pierre shared.
Part-sponsored by The Mill Reef Fund, the programme is designed primarily for women, especially young single mothers who either did not attend secondary school or did not achieve the required grades in Mathematics or English to improve their employment prospects. Over three years, participants will have access to five core learning areas: CXC Mathematics, CXC English, French, Introduction to Computers, and Communication skills through Toastmasters International. Mentorship and guidance in interview preparation willfurther help participants navigate the job-seeking process and approach employment opportunities with greater confidence.Fifteen adults will be able to participate in each cohort at a supplemented cost of $150 per month. Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will receive a professional certificate of completion.
For Executive Director at Sandals Foundation Heidi Clarke, the partnership reflects the importance of recognising and supporting community institutions that are developing practical solutions to local needs. “When we learned more about Mill Academy’s vision, we saw an opportunity to support an initiative with benefits that extend well beyond the classroom. The school is addressing an important need by bringing academic development, digital literacy and employment preparation together in one programme. We are proud to support that vision and to help create an environment where learning can continue at every stage of life,” Clarke said. The investment also brings immediate possibilities for the school’s students. Zion David, Mill Academy’s Student Council President says, “The upgraded classroom offers new ways to explore lessons, engage with educational content and deepen my understanding beyond traditional teaching methods.” For adult programme participant Sheneek Black-Hope, the initiative represents, “An opportunity to strengthen my skills and work towards greater professional confidence.” Her participation reflects the programme’s wider ambition to help adults build on their abilities and pursue new possibilities through education.
For Sandals Antigua General Manager David Latchimy, the investment speaks to the wider value of partnerships that connect community needs with meaningful, long-term development. “Strong communities are built when organizations work together towards a shared vision. Mill Academy has identified a need within its community and is taking practical steps to address it, and we are pleased to stand alongside the school and its partners in that effort. When local institutions are supported in turning their ideas into action, the benefits can reach far beyond the walls of a single classroom,” Latchimy said.
Through its investment in Mill Academy, the Sandals Foundation is helping strengthen an educational space that serves both present and future needs. Alongside the support of The Mill Reef Fund and the school’s commitment to lifelong learning, the initiative demonstrates how collaboration can help build stronger educational foundations and create pathways to a brighter future for the wider community.
Sandals Public Relations Manager and Sandals Foundation Representative Leon Norville shares a moment with student at the newly activated smart classroom.
The upgraded classroom space now features an interactive smart board, more than a dozen tablets, stylus pens, camera and sound device, wireless keyboards, headphones and modern furniture, creating a contemporary learning environment that encourages greater interaction, exploration and engagement.
Mill Academy Principal Kisma Panthier-Jn Pierre guides students through an interactive session earlier this week.
