22 schools ready to shine at Junior Soca finals

2026-02-03 - 02:19

With the stage set for the 2026 Junior Soca competition finals, Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath has promised the event will be a safe zone for student performers. Speaking at yesterday’s official draw to determine their performance positions, Dowlath congratulated the 22 finalists representing 11 primary schools and nine secondary schools. He emphasised the value of school Carnival programmes, saying the ministry is committed to investing in culture through the education system. “The Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring that our school spaces, including cultural events, are safe, secure and supportive environments. Our safe and secure school framework is not just a policy. It’s a promise to parents and guardians that their children can express themselves creatively in spaces that protect their wellbeing,” Dowlath told parents and other stakeholders. “We are working closely with school administrators, safety and security personnel, and event partners to ensure that our students are safe while they shine.” The 2026 finals will be held at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts on February 10. ORDER OF APPEARANCE Primary School Finalists Josiah Wallace – Diego Martin Government Primary Azavier Charles – St. Patrick Newtown Girls’ RC Xhaiden Darius – Savonetta Private School Aijah-Marie Williams – Cedar Grove Private Primary School Celebrit-T Charles – Lower Morvant Government Primary School Amayah Wallace-Aniebonam – CTS College Online Primary Liam Wellington – Longdenville Government Primary School Kymani Hector-Kalloo – St. Peter’s RC Primary School Adianka Andrews – St. Joseph Girls’ RC Alexia Adams Alexis – St. Barbs Government Primary School Omari McDonald – San Fernando Boys’ RC Secondary School Finalists Lennesha Bailey – Bishops Anstey High School, Port of Spain Takiyana Frederick – East Mucurapo Secondary Raylan Green – CUC Nathaniel Camejo – Presentation College, Chaguanas Zachary Ransome – Presentation College, San Fernando Darion McDonald – Presentation College, San Fernando D’Ashe Saul – Bishops High School, Tobago Marcus McDonald – Presentation College, San Fernando Synara Lee – East Mucurapo Secondary Joshua Duprey – St. Mary’s College Jalessa Lazarus – President College