Minister Kay McConney, responsible for Education, has issued a warning to those opposing reforms, emphasizing that the current education system has reached a point where change is imperative to prevent certain students from being marginalized and losing interest in their nation.
During the Budget debate, McConney highlighted that while the existing system has produced skilled tradespeople and scholars, some individuals have been overlooked due to policies and curricula that did not cater to their needs.
The Member of Parliament for St Philip West emphasized the increasing global demand for technical and vocational skills, stating that Barbados must adapt its educational framework accordingly.
McConney stressed the importance of evolving the current system rather than discarding it entirely. She outlined a vision where every individual feels included and valued within the educational and societal structure, underscoring the negative repercussions of leaving people behind.
Addressing the shortcomings of the Common Entrance Examination, McConney pointed out that a significant percentage of students struggle in subjects like Mathematics and English, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current approach.
In response to Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne’s stance on preserving the education system, McConney reiterated the necessity of comprehensive curriculum reform. She highlighted the interconnected nature of curriculum adjustments, teacher training, and infrastructure enhancements to drive meaningful change.
McConney criticized the passive approach towards education, attributing it to the deteriorating school infrastructure. She announced plans for a robust maintenance strategy to modernize the education system and adapt to evolving educational paradigms.
The minister emphasized the urgency of exploring new educational models and infrastructure designs to ensure a progressive learning environment for future generations.