President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Saint Lucia in education, culture, and technology, emphasizing the importance of Afro-Caribbean relations and offering student exchanges. During his state visit to Saint Lucia, Tinubu visited the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, where he interacted with students and faculty, highlighting the deep historical and cultural links between Africa and the Caribbean.
The President stressed that education is a crucial tool for solving problems and achieving satisfaction and pride in one’s accomplishments. “Don’t depend on AI technology to find you the solution,” he advised students. “Go through like a recipe in the kitchen, one after the other. Then you solve the problem. Once you solve the problem, you see satisfaction in yourself and pride in achievement.”
Tinubu’s visit marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s relations with the Caribbean, as both regions rekindle centuries-old ancestral, cultural, and political bonds rooted in shared African heritage. He announced a scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study in Nigerian universities, starting next academic year.
Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology, and Vocational Training, Edward Shadrack, described the President’s visit as a powerful testament to the enduring ties between Africa and the Caribbean. “Your presence here today is a powerful testament to the enduring bonds between Africa and the Caribbean—ties deeply rooted in shared history, culture, and aspirations,” Shadrack said.
The Chairman of the college’s board of governors, Mr. Cletus Springer, called for a robust partnership between the College and Nigerian universities and polytechnics in student and faculty exchange, joint research, digital innovation, and strengthening technical and vocational education. Springer thanked President Tinubu for announcing scholarships for OECS students to study in Nigeria, saying, “We are excited about our students learning alongside their Nigerian peers.”
The students of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College also expressed their appreciation for the scholarship initiative. Naeem Philbert, President of the Students’ Council, described President Tinubu’s visit as a moment of reconnection between Africa and its diaspora, saying, “Today is not just about diplomatic formality—it is a quiet yet powerful affirmation that we have not forgotten one another.”
Before departing the college, President Tinubu paid his respects at Sir Arthur Lewis’s graveside in the school compound, highlighting the intellectual and historical connections that bind Saint Lucia and Nigeria. The two nations have agreed to establish formal diplomatic relations, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in trade, culture, and education.
