Barbados is confronting a significant educational challenge as recent data reveals over 40% of the adult population lacks formal certification, prompting a coordinated government response. This literacy deficit is increasingly viewed as a critical barrier to workforce development and economic participation, compelling the Ministries of Labour and Education to formulate a comprehensive national strategy.
The issue gained prominence during House Estimates discussions for the Ministry of Labour’s appropriations, where Education Transformation Minister Chad Blackman emphasized the severe limitations poor literacy skills impose on adult citizens. Labour Minister Colin Jordan acknowledged the sensitive nature of adult education, revealing that his ministry has strengthened collaboration with the Ministry of Technological and Vocational Training over the past six months, particularly through apprenticeship initiatives.
Erika Watson, Programme Manager at the Ministry of Labour, provided lawmakers with details of the emerging national strategic plan. “Our focus has been on developing a national strategy that recognizes the multitude of stakeholders involved in addressing adult literacy,” Watson explained. “We need a framework that facilitates coordination and pulls all efforts together.”
The strategy will prioritize functional literacy—equipping adults with practical skills necessary to capitalize on labor market opportunities, enhance workplace effectiveness, and realize their full potential. Minister Jordan further proposed establishing skills sector councils to guide workforce development in priority industries, with the first council focusing on renewable energy already in development.
These industry-led councils will identify emerging trends, skill gaps, and future development needs across key sectors. Watson elaborated that the councils will “inform education and training, career guidance work, and employment promotion strategies.” The government plans to establish at least four such councils this year covering renewable energy, construction, tourism, and information technology services.
Concurrently, Minister Jordan acknowledged underutilization of International Labour Organization (ILO) resources and committed to leveraging these international resources more effectively to support Barbados’ literacy and workforce development objectives.