GREAT BAY--On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, students at the St. Maarten Vocational Training School, SVTS, took part in a hands-on bootcamp initiative led by the Royal Netherlands Marines Corps, giving young people on the island a firsthand look at military discipline, teamwork and physical training.
The initiative stemmed from a call to action by Member of Parliament Sjamira Roseburg, who recognized the value of connecting young people with the structure and discipline the Marines could offer as part of their personal development.
The event was carried out through a joint effort between Roseburg, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Melissa Gumbs, and Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling, in coordination with the Marines contingent stationed on St. Maarten.
“I thank the Marines for lending their operational expertise to our SMVTS students,” Gumbs said, noting that the initiative reflects a shared commitment by all parties to invest in the island’s youth through practical, character-building experiences.
“As the responsible authority for public education, it’s my goal to work with all stakeholders in education to instil in our youth a sense of structure, interest in their future and consideration for their fellow St. Maarteners. These experiences expose them to new ways of working together and problem-solving, key skills that are needed for life.”
During the bootcamp, students participated in guided fitness sessions and military-style training drills led by Marine instructors, designed to build stamina, discipline and teamwork in a supportive and structured environment.
In addition to the physical training, students received a briefing on the responsibilities of the Royal Netherlands Marines Corps during their deployment to St. Maarten, offering insight into the role the Marines play in supporting the island’s safety and security.
“I’m happy that we were able to come together to make this event a success,” Roseburg said. “While they were cautiously curious at first, the students eventually opened up and were able to come together, cooperate and execute the exercises they were given.”
“It’s my hope that our young people realize that discipline, dedication and focus can lead to a better life for them and I firmly believe that collaborations such as this are necessary to show them that reality. The students felt heard, they felt seen, which is something that our young people do not often experience. It was very heartwarming to witness this and I look forward to future events taking place.”
“The Ministry views this initiative as part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between St. Maarten’s young people and the institutions that serve the island,” Tackling stated.
“Something I have noted as Minister is that very often, exposure to new skills and different pathways is what stands between our youth’s current circumstances and better conditions for their future realities. I’m grateful to the Marines for their partnership and hope to see similar programs for our students across the Justice chain.”
