UN Donates Key Educational Resources to Arthur Smith Primary

In a continued show of support for local education, the United Nations Barbados & the Eastern Caribbean has donated new learning tools and refurbishment supplies to Arthur Smith Primary School, strengthening a partnership that has steadily deepened over the years. 

The contribution includes smart televisions with mobile stands, early-literacy and educational books, and paint and building materials to support the refurbishment of one of the school’s blocks, a school with neighbours UN House in Barbados. 

The initiative reflects the UN’s collective commitment to advancing quality education, particularly as schools across the region confront challenges, including the severe disruption faced by thousands of children in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa. 

United Nations Resident Coordinator, Simon Springett, said the UN remains committed to supporting the next generation and the institutions that guide their development. 

“You’re not only our neighbour, but you’re educating our youth—many of whom we hope to see working as professionals in this building in the years to come.” 

He noted that the partnership with Arthur Smith Primary has become an example of how consistent, community-focused engagement can make a meaningful difference.

 “For us, this relationship is about trust and continuity. Every time we engage with your staff or interact with your students, we see the impact of dedicated teachers and a school community that genuinely wants the best for its children.” 

Mr. Springett added that the UN system will continue to offer its time, expertise and mentorship wherever possible. “We have a wide range of expertise across this building, and anyone here would be more than willing to spend time with the children—whether it’s to open their minds to new fields or simply help them explore their curiosity.” 

Principal John Quinton expressed deep appreciation for the UN’s sustained support, describing the partnership as essential to the school’s progress and resilience. 

“This house [UN] has been a tower of strength and support to the school. We value this partnership greatly—it is not one-off, it is ongoing, and it is felt by our teachers and students alike.” 

Mr. Quinton recalled the state of the school’s resources when he first arrived. 

“When I came here [to the school], we had almost 400 children and just one television. These new televisions and reading materials will go a long way toward transforming classroom engagement and helping teachers use technology more effectively.”

 He added that modern tools make an immediate difference in how children learn. Mr. Quinton also acknowledged earlier support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which upgraded the school’s internet and allowed teachers to seamlessly use multimedia tools anywhere on the compound. “That upgrade changed the way we teach. It meant better access, better preparation and better learning experiences for the children.”