Trinidad and Tobago’s new approach to expelled students: The MiLAT programme

Trinidad and Tobago’s Cabinet has given the green light to an initiative aimed at redefining the future of expelled students within the education system. 

The country’s Education Minister, Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly announced that expelled students are to be integrated into the Military-Led Academic Training (MiLAT) Programme.

Dr. Gadsby-Dolly emphasized that students compelled to leave the conventional school system will now undergo compulsory registration into the MiLAT programme.

A focus on boys, but what about girls?

Notably, the MiLAT programme currently caters exclusively to male students.

 When questioned about the placement of expelled girls, Dr. Gadsby-Dolly affirmed that there are alternative government programs readily available to provide them with the necessary training and support.

Addressing behavioral concerns

Since the beginning of the year, 10 students have faced expulsion from schools across the nation.

Dr. Gadsby-Dolly revealed that a significant number of students who had displayed behavioral issues in schools experienced a positive transformation after accessing student support services. 

She further shared that these programs are designed to offer assistance beyond the capabilities of the Ministry, with the ultimate goal of equipping expelled students to lead productive lives in the future.