As the Federation observe the 33rd Anniversary of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College, we remember the visionary himself, for his work and dedication in the education sector.
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant, a lawyer and solicitor by profession, was a staunch supporter and member of the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party. He served as party chairman for a number of years, and from 1966-1980, as parliamentary representative for constituency number 8. As an elected official, he served as Minister of Health and Social Affairs and Attorney General.
Mr. Bryant’s greatest contribution was in the field of education. He introduced sweeping policies in education that positioned St. Kitts and Nevis as a leading country in education reform. In September 1966, months after his first appointment as Minister of Education, he ushered in the era of universal secondary education in the country. The bold and revolutionary initiative democratized and decentralized education in the Federation, and shattered the social and financial barricades that had for many years excluded a large number of young people from working class families.
His vision for education included the introduction of tertiary education. He sought and obtained from the University of the West Indies a programme that would offer part-time study to Kittitians and Nevisians who wished to pursue studies leading to undergraduate degrees. He envisioned the establishment of a tertiary education institution, and was instrumental in introducing a Teachers Training College, and a Technical and Vocational College.
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant not only led the revolution in formal education, but he promoted and participated in non-formal education. He was loyal to the Trade Union Movement and was its General Secretary until his death in 1997.
We remember the work and contributions of Mr. Bryant, and we salute him for his selfless leadership.