Education Ministry Confirms All Schools Open For 2026/2027 Academic Year
The Ministry of Education has confirmed that all 777 Government and Government-Assisted schools, including Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) centres, across Trinidad and Tobago were open on Monday, September 7th, 2026, for the start of the 2026/2027 academic year.
Minister of Education Dr Michael Dowlath extended best wishes to all students, teachers, principals, parents and support staff for a safe, productive and successful academic year.
The Minister also endorsed Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC’s advice on regular attendance, discipline, respect for educators and active parental responsibility. Students are urged to take their education seriously, while parents are encouraged to work closely with schools to support their children’s learning and behaviour.
The Ministry of Education also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the Government’s education initiatives, including the School Nutrition Programme, Stronger Nutrition Standards, School Supplies and Book Grant Initiative, Digital and AI-enhanced Learning, and student and parent support. Incoming Form 1 students are expected to receive their laptops during Term I of the 2026/2027 academic year.
It added that the Stakeholder Alliance for Education & Enhancement – S.A.F.E. (Police in Schools Programme) initiative will continue in schools with heightened safety concerns, with the deployment and effectiveness of officers kept under continuous assessment. The Ministry said it maintains a zero-tolerance approach to school violence, with prompt action through the National School Code of Conduct and established disciplinary procedures.
The Education Ministry also stated that works will be conducted after school hours and at weekends to complete outstanding repairs where necessary at a few schools. Required health and safety standards will be maintained to protect students and staff.
The Ministry thanked the Ministry of Public Utilities, the National Maintenance Training and Security Company Ltd. (MTS), parents and all education stakeholders for their contribution to reopening schools and supporting the return to learning.
