Students across The Bahamas will head to the polls on Thursday, October 16, 2025, to cast their votes and elect representatives for the Local Government Junior Council Program.
On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Nomination Day was in full swing on Grand Bahama Island, with prospective candidates from ten public and private institutions participating in the process.
At Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Academy, Coordinator for the Junior Local Government Program, Ms. Veronique Martin, noted that this marks the school’s third year in the competition. She explained that candidates were required to complete nomination forms, which were supervised by teachers and principals, and to pay a nomination fee of $5.
Martin described the initiative as a resounding success for Grand Bahama, highlighting several impactful projects led by students. “We won overall for The Bahamas last year. Our projects were extensive and designed to be sustainable,” she said. “We have six arms that include technology, economic empowerment through agriculture, education, planting, harvesting, and financial literacy. We’ve also partnered with Berkshire Farms and Mr. Terrence Roberts III.”
She added that the school recently launched an Agriculture Day and Forum, emphasizing that the Junior Council’s support has been instrumental in sustaining these programs. “Our Parent-Teacher Association has been very supportive,” Martin said, “but we always welcome more collaboration. Local Government has gained greater autonomy, and as an educational institution, we hope to see more emphasis placed on education within the program as it continues to evolve.”
Administrator Preston Cooper, who visited several schools within the Central Grand Bahama constituency, said the goal of the program is to ensure continuity of leadership and civic engagement within The Bahamas’ Local Government system.
“The overarching goal is to ignite the passion for leadership and development among our students—our future community and national leaders,” Cooper said. “Ten schools are participating this year, including our newest addition, The Beacon School.”
He noted that prior to Election Day, participating students underwent training sessions hosted by the Government of The Bahamas. Following the elections, successful candidates will be sworn in during school assemblies. “Each council receives a budget of $1,000, and members work alongside the Senior Council and the City of Freeport. Every school is assigned a council member who provides guidance and support,” Cooper added.
The Local Government Junior Council was introduced in 2023 to promote leadership, civic awareness, and youth engagement across The Bahamas. The program encourages students to participate in educational, social, political, and community-building activities—fostering an appreciation for democracy and national development.
Once nominated, candidates have a limited time to campaign for votes before election day. Students are also encouraged to partner with private entities interested in supporting their initiatives. Through participation, they gain practical insight into governance, advocacy, and community development—skills that serve as a foundation for potential future careers in Local Government.
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