The critical role education plays in moulding well-rounded Caribbean citizens, particularly in the rapidly changing global environment, was the common thread of remarks at the opening of a CARICOM Meeting of Education Ministers in Georgetown, Guyana, on Wednesday.
Ministers of Education from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), representatives of regional institutions, partner organisations and other stakeholders are in Georgetown for the 52nd Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development on Education. The meeting is being chaired by the Hon. Sonia Parag, Minister of Education of Guyana.
Under the theme ‘Educating for life, purpose and Caribbean progress,’ the Ministers will deliberate on matters including micro-credentialling, assessments across the Region, enhancing the mathematics programme for Primary and Secondary schools, and advancing teachers, teaching and the teaching profession in the Community.
Addressing the opening session, Minister Parag pointed out that the Meeting theme calls for considering education beyond the acquisition of knowledge or the preparation of children to succeed at examinations.
“It challenges us to consider whether our education systems are giving every learner the foundation and confidence required to think critically, challenge the status quo, and ultimately, the ability to adapt to a constantly changing world,” the Minster said. She added that education skills in the current environment must also include all forms of learning, such as technical and vocational education, apprenticeships, industry-based training, and talent development.
In remarks at the opening, CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett also placed emphasis on technical and vocational education and training (TVET), making the connection between skills development and employment and TVET’s role in strengthening the Region’s resilience and competitiveness.
“Ministers would be aware that there is a growing demand for technical, vocational and digital skills in the Region. This presents an opportunity to strengthen the connection between education, skills development and employment,” the Secretary-General said.
Dr. Barnett expressed the hope that the Meeting will move the Community closer to advancing policies to strengthen education systems and reflect shared vision, “one that values every learner, encourages partnerships among students, teachers and parents, embraces multiple pathways to success, strengthens regional integration, and equips every one of our citizens to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.”