President Bola Tinubu has urged students of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Saint Lucia to value education as their most powerful tool for success, urging them to remain bold, disciplined, and committed in their pursuit of knowledge.
Speaking during his visit to the college on the fourth day of his State Visit to Saint Lucia, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Caribbean nation through education, culture, and technology.
“Nothing like education can fight poverty,” the President told students and staff. “Be intellectually inquisitive. Be consistent. Be bold.”
President Tinubu announced a cultural exchange visit to Nigeria for the college’s performing arts group following their performance of The Drum Maker. He also reiterated Nigeria’s tuition-free scholarship programme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
He cautioned students against overreliance on artificial intelligence, encouraging them instead to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Highlighting deep cultural and historical ties between Africa and the Caribbean, the President pledged Nigeria’s continued support for Afrocentric cooperation and youth empowerment.
“We will give you a banner without stain if you work hard, honestly, and consistently,” he said, referencing a line from Nigeria’s national anthem.
Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, Edward Shadrack, welcomed the visit as a reaffirmation of shared values and aspirations between Africa and the Caribbean.
“This visit is not just symbolic—it is a powerful statement of unity and belief in the transformative power of education,” Shadrack said.
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the College Board, called for deeper institutional collaboration between SALCC and Nigerian higher institutions, including joint research, faculty exchange, and vocational training partnerships.
Student Council President Naeem Philbert described the visit as a powerful reconnection with Africa.
“Nigeria is not a foreign country. It is family,” he said. “Your generosity and presence bring hope and opportunity to youth like us.”
President Tinubu was accompanied by top Nigerian officials, including the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; and the Chair of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
The President also paid homage at the gravesite of Nobel Laureate Sir Arthur Lewis, located on the school premises.
