ORANJESTAD – The Statia Government has confirmed that construction of the Gwendoline van Putten school will restart this month, following a renewed agreement between the Government, the Ministry of Education (OCW), and Statia Construction N.V. The project is now scheduled for completion by August 2026.
Work on the school, which is already 63% finished, had stalled due to contractual and logistical issues. The new agreement sets out clear responsibilities, deadlines, and quality standards to ensure timely delivery.
Commissioner of Infrastructure Rechelline Leerdam welcomed the breakthrough, noting that the agreement “ensures that the school will be completed as contracted.” Commissioner of Education Reuben Merkman emphasized that the new facility will provide students with a safe, modern, and inspiring learning environment.
The school will feature 15 classrooms, a science lab, workshops for technical trades, a commercial kitchen, and a theatre arts space. It will accommodate more than 300 students, with room for future expansion.
Close supervision
Construction will proceed under close supervision by the Government’s project management team to guarantee quality and timely progress.
