THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita Arrindell Minister
Plenipotentiary recently had the pleasure of receiving Jacqueline Duggins-Horsford, General
Director of a delegation from SVOBE (Stichting Voortgezet Onderwijs van de Bovenwindse
Eilanden), along with SVOBE’s Education Director, Sergio Blomont.
SVOBE is responsible for secondary education at institutions such as Milton Peters College
and Sundial School on Sint Maarten.
Through its focus on holistic education and regional academic pathways, SVOBE plays an
important role in preparing the island’s youth for future academic and professional success.
The delegation was welcomed by Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell.
The meeting focused on several key themes related to education, talent development, and
future opportunities for Sint Maarten students. Among the topics discussed were
opportunities for Erasmus+ exchanges and internship pathways for students from Sint
Maarten.
Special attention was also given to strengthening collaboration in the area of student and
talent tracking, with the shared goal of encouraging students to return home after
completing their studies and contribute to Sint Maarten’s long-term development.
In this context, the Cabinet highlighted the importance of its Diaspora Database as a tool
for targeted recruitment, helping to connect Sint Maarten talent in the Netherlands with
opportunities back home.
Furthermore, the Minister suggested facilitating introductory meetings with award-winning
education professionals in the Netherlands to encourage the exchange of best practices.
The meeting reflects the Cabinet’s continued commitment to advancing education,
empowering youth, and supporting sustainable nation-building through strong institutional
partnerships.
