Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 10, 2026 (PMO): Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has challenged the latest recipients of scholarships to study in the Republic of China (Taiwan) to make full use of the opportunities before them and ultimately return home equipped with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to contribute to the continued development of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Prime Minister Drew delivered the charge during the 2026 MOFA and ICDF Taiwanese Scholarships Awarding Ceremony, where 37 students preparing to pursue higher education in Taiwan were formally recognised.
Addressing the recipients directly, Prime Minister Drew emphasised that the opportunity represents a significant investment in their individual futures and, by extension, the future development of the Federation.
“So, students, we have worked hard to get you this many scholarships. We are now saying to you, take advantage of it and make all of us proud. Good luck and success, and we expect to see you home ready to contribute to national development,” Prime Minister Drew said.
The Prime Minister noted that the Government has worked deliberately to expand the number of scholarship opportunities available to nationals through its partnership with Taiwan. He said discussions with President Lai Ching-te focused in part on expanding educational opportunities, resulting in the number of scholarships increasing significantly from 27 to 40.
Dr. Drew said the Government’s advocacy was driven by the calibre and ambition of the nation’s young people and the growing demand among nationals seeking opportunities to further their education.
He therefore encouraged the recipients not to take the scholarships for granted, particularly given the number of other young people who are also hoping to access similar opportunities.
“So we have given you the opportunity, in other words, for you to have access to a quality education at no cost to you or your family, the only thing that we are asking of you-and tell me if it is too much to ask of you-is to dedicate yourself, work hard, pass, and make all of us proud,” the Prime Minister stated.
Prime Minister Drew also encouraged the students to embrace the full experience of studying abroad. Beyond their academic responsibilities, he urged them to learn about Taiwan’s people, culture and language, establish meaningful relationships and approach their new environment with an open mind.
“Instead of comparing, embrace, widen your scope, widen your horizon, and the experience will be enriching. The more you open up your mind, the more enriching the experience will be,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that education remains an important pillar of national development and that the Government will continue leveraging international partnerships to create pathways through which Kittitians and Nevisians can acquire globally competitive skills and qualifications.
He also reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan, describing Taiwan as a genuine development partner whose contribution extends well beyond education into healthcare, water, infrastructure and other important areas of national advancement.
