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Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 2, 2026
— The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has taken a significant step toward advancing inclusion by signing a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Special Olympics St. Kitts and Nevis. The agreement, formalized on April 1, 2026, establishes the Federation as a partner in the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion Partnership for the 2026–2028 period.
The signing ceremony took place at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Social Development and Disability, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, signed on behalf of the Government. National Director Ivor Blake represented Special Olympics St. Kitts and Nevis.
Under the three-year agreement, the Government will invest EC$105,000 to expand the Unified Champion Schools programme—a globally recognized initiative that promotes inclusive education through sport, leadership development, and whole-school engagement. Initially piloted with students from the Cotton-Thomas Comprehensive School and two primary schools, the programme has already demonstrated success in fostering teamwork and reducing discrimination by integrating students of all abilities.
The expanded initiative aims to reach 18 schools nationwide, train 80 teachers, and engage more than 1,000 students, including at least 150 students with intellectual disabilities.
Describing the moment as more than a formal agreement, Mr. Blake emphasized that the signing represents “a shared belief that every person, regardless of ability, deserves a place to learn, grow, and thrive.”
Lorna Bell, Executive Director of Special Olympics Caribbean, commended the Government’s decisive action, noting that the partnership sends a powerful message of inclusion and ensures that no one is left behind.
Deputy Prime Minister Hanley called the agreement a profound honour and highlighted its broader societal impact. He noted that fostering inclusion strengthens national unity by cultivating a sense of belonging and mutual respect.
“This spirit of camaraderie breaks barriers and builds bridges, allowing us to celebrate our differences while coming together as one community,” Dr. Hanley said. “Imagine the global impact if inclusion became a universal mindset.”
He also acknowledged the longstanding achievements of the Federation’s Special Olympics athletes on the international stage, underscoring the positive influence on athletes, families, and communities alike.
The Government’s latest commitment builds on ongoing efforts to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. Since 2022, these efforts have included enhancing accessibility to public buildings, expanding transportation services, designating accessible parking, and introducing sign language services.
In May 2025, Saint Kitts and Nevis further reinforced its commitment by acceding to the Inter-American Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities at the Organisation of American States (OAS).
With this new partnership, Saint Kitts and Nevis continues to position itself as a regional leader in promoting inclusion, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to participate fully in society and experience the transformative power of sport and community.
Source: SKNIS
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