The building was named the Barnes Ghaut Adult Education Centre.
The centre was officially opened on Wednesday 21st September, 2011.
In welcoming the new educational facility, Premier of Nevis, Mr. Joseph Parry revealed that the construction cost of the building was EC$768,537.90.
The facility was funded by the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).
At the handing over ceremony, Parry said, “Residents of Barnes Ghaut will benefit greatly for years to come from this new adult education center, this is an important government investment that will strengthen the Barnes Ghaut community,”
Premier Parry announced that the centre is fitted with a computer lab, a senior outreach center, learning facilities, a kitchen, a multipurpose room and parking.
“The new multiple-use facility will provide recreational opportunities for members of the community,” said the Premier.
“In 2009, the Nevis Reformation Party-led Cabinet initiated efforts to build a new facility capable of meeting a wide-variety of community needs, while accommodating the population of Barnes Ghaut,” commented the Premier.
Parry mentioned that during construction of the centre, a resident of Barnes Ghaut expressed dissatisfaction with the architecture and size of the community center as compared to two other community centres being erected in the neighboring villages of Jessups and Cotton Ground.
“Don’t be jealous of Jessups or Cotton Ground buildings, be happy with what you have because you have a great building and at the end of the day, it is about the people, not the edifice,” said the Premier.
A representative of Beyond Homes handed over the keys of the building to Ms. Eglantine Duberry, a longtime resident of Barnes Ghaut.
Ms. Duberry also cut the ribbon and made way for well wishers to tour the new facility.