Eugene Blackett’s achievements and contribution to Tobago are immeasurable, Chief Secretary Orville London has said.

The Chief Secretary paid tribute to the former educator on Monday (November 23, 2015), who passed away on Saturday night at the Scarborough General Hospital at the age of 97.

Blackett is best known as a former teacher and principal of Bishop’s High School, and has been credited for his stewardship of some of the Tobago’s current leaders, including Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. London is also a Bishop’s alum.

The Chief Secretary said of Blackett: “As teacher and principal of the Bishop’s High School when, for most of the period, it was the only secondary institution on the island, Mr Blackett has influenced and moulded the minds of hundreds of young Tobagonians, many of whom have made significant contributions at the national, regional and international levels.”

“Mr Blackett did not confine his influence only to academic development. He encouraged and facilitated the nurturing of talent and interest in sport, culture and entrepreneurial activities. He was also the main catalyst for the introduction of the Cadet Force to Tobago and remained in that organisation for many decades after retirement from his teaching career. He was involved in a number of service organisations and participated in meaningful community activities, well into his nineties.”

Chief Secretary Orville London attested that Eugene Blackett was a major influence in his early development and even in later years, he was never reluctant to offer advice, recommendations and even criticism on a wide range of issues.

“Eugene Blackett lived a long and highly productive life,” London added. “His achievements and contribution are immeasurable and his legacy is securely entrenched in the lives of all those whom he has influenced to ‘be better and to contribute more’.”

The Tobago House of Assembly joins the rest of the island and the country in paying tribute to the iconic educator, Eugene Blackett.