Education
HJ Robinson’s Daysha Andrews to Represent Turks and Caicos in International Letter-Writing Competition
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, in collaboration with the Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services, proudly announces that Daysha Andrews, a student of the Helena Jones Robinson High School, has been selected to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands in the 54th International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People, organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU).
This marks the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands has participated in this global competition, which sees entries from over 190 countries. Daysha’s powerful and expressive letter captured the spirit of this year’s theme, earning her the honour of being the country’s inaugural representative on the international stage. The international results are expected to be released in October 2025, in celebration of World Post Day.
In addition to Daysha’s outstanding performance, the Ministry also recognizes the accomplishments of the national finalists:
- Nathan Garland of Shining Stars Preparatory School, who was named Second Runner-Up, and
- of Best Institute, who secured the position of Third Runner-Up.
Presentations have already been made by the Ministry and the Postal Services to Daysha Andrews and Nathan Garland in recognition of
their achievements. A presentation to Laila Reynolds will be made in the near future to honour her contribution and commendable effort. Postmaster General, Ms. Elizabeth James, expressed her pride in the students and the significance of the territory’s participation: “This is the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services has participated in this prestigious competition. I would like to congratulate the seven students from the four schools that entered. All the letters were exceptional, but only one person could be chosen. I would like to thank the winner, Ms. Daysha Andrews, and I wish her all the best as she now competes internationally with over 190 other participants. The result is expected in October 2025 for World Post Day.”
Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, the Honourable Otis Morris, praised the initiative and student involvement:
“We are incredibly proud of all our young writers who participated in this landmark event. Daysha has made history for Turks and Caicos, and we eagerly anticipate the international outcome. This competition underscores the importance of self-expression, literacy, and global connection. We thank every student who participated and look forward to even greater engagement next year.”
Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, added:
“This competition has sparked a new wave of inspiration among our students. The Ministry remains committed to nurturing opportunities that amplify youth voices and celebrate their potential. We are grateful to our Postal Services team for spearheading this important initiative and ensuring its success.”
The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities and the Postal Services Department extend their sincere appreciation to the students, parents, educators, and schools who supported this effort. As we look ahead, we hope to see greater participation across even more schools and islands in next year’s competition.
Bahamas Information Services
GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas — On Saturday, August 23, 2025, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, Kingsley Smith along with Deputy Director of Education for the Grand Bahama, Bimini, and The Cays District, Michelle Bowleg toured Holmes Rock Junior High School to assess ongoing progress and ensure the project remains on track to welcome students for the new academic term in September.
Following the tour, Smith expressed optimism regarding the ongoing progress, stating, “Having toured the site and seeing the work that is
being done on the weekend, shows the commitment and dedication to getting it completed.”
He also noted that after discussions with the contractors, he was assured that with sufficient manpower and around-the-clock work, the project remains on track for completion by September 1, 2025.
“One of our underlying goals is really access, so we are happy that the school will be up and ready for our students,” said Bowleg.
She highlighted that several zoom meetings were held with parents to keep them informed about key updates including booklists, uniforms, and staffing. According to Bowleg, feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It is a beautiful facility, one that parents will be very proud of, and the entire West Grand Bahama community,” she added.
(BIS Photos/Danielle Rollon)
