Ministry of Education and Training Celebrates Long-Serving Civil Servants at Awards Ceremony

The Ministry of Education & Training honoured 283 long-serving public officers during its Annual Long Service Awards Ceremony, held at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa on Saturday 18 October 2025.

The elegant evening recognised employees across the core Ministry, the Department of Education Services, the Public Library Service, the National Training and Development Unit, and the Sunrise Adult Training Centre who have served for 15 years or more.

Minister for Education and Training, Hon. Rolston Anglin, highlighted the transformative power of education and the impact of those who dedicate their lives to public service.

“A good public education system is the great social equaliser,” he stated. “I stand here today because of teachers — people like you — who saw potential, gave patience, love, and care, and helped shape the lives of thousands.”

Also in attendance, delivering remarks on behalf of the Cayman Islands Government, Premier Hon. Andre Ebanks, commended the honourees for their lasting contributions to national development.

“It takes the entire network — from educators and librarians to every member of the Ministry team — to build a truly functioning public education system,” said Premier Ebanks. “Each of you plays a vital role in creating the future, not for ourselves, but for the next generation.”

Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service, Hon. Franz Manderson described the event as a reflection of the Civil Service’s strength and heart.

“Across your varied roles, you have consistently upheld the Civil Service’s purpose: to make the lives of those we serve better,” he said. “As a result of your devotion, our institutions are stronger, our people better served, and our nation better prepared for the future.”

Chief Officer, Ms. Cetonya Cacho, expressed gratitude to the honourees for their professionalism and teamwork.

“This evening, we celebrate the heart of our Ministry — our people,” Ms. Cacho said. “You are the quiet force that sustains our Ministry — one team, united in service of our students, clients, and our islands.”

The honourees were recognised across five service categories ranging from 15 to 19 years, 20 to 24 years, 25 to 29 years, 30 to 34 years and over 35 years.

Awardee Mrs. Dewayne Bennett, who has dedicated four decades to the classroom, expressed her appreciation following the event, adding, “Thank you for the lovely award — I will cherish this.”

Her words echoed the sentiment felt across the room as colleagues and leaders celebrated the legacy of those who continue to shape the nation’s education landscape.

As the evening came to a close, the celebration stood as a reminder that long service is more than years counted — it is lives shaped, lessons shared, and communities strengthened.

The Ministry of Education & Training reaffirmed its commitment to building on that legacy and encourages others who wish to make a difference in the lives of others to explore current opportunities at careers.gov.ky.