The University of Vermont is once again partnering with the Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, to undertake various community projects in Saint Lucia. The research university based in Burlington, Vermont has aided the island in several initiatives since 2004. These initiatives include the installation of a Hydro Power Unit and the launch of a Mangrove Eco-System project.

On Wednesday, January 4, 2023, a contingent of 19 students and two professors arrived on the island and will engage in a number of developmental activities which include a school kitchen garden at the Gros-Islet Primary School and a survey to determine the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on Saint Lucian households in various communities.

The survey is intended to gather data from 400 households in the communities of Gros-Islet, Castries, Soufriere and Vieux Fort and will commence on January 9 - 12, 2023. This will be in the form of face to face interviews and the completion of a short questionnaire.

The valuable data collected during this survey will help to improve policies and decisions aimed at addressing the needs of households. We therefore solicit the cooperation of the general public to ensure the success of this exercise.

For further information on the visit contact the Consumer Affairs Department at 468-4238.