Carib Scope

分类： education

  • Thousands of teaching vacancies exist

    Thousands of teaching vacancies exist

    Guyana’s public education system is confronting a substantial staffing crisis with 2,800 vacancies for senior teaching positions, according to Monday’s parliamentary disclosures by Minister of Governance Gail Teixeira. The revelation came during the National Assembly’s Committee of Supply review of the 2026 National Budget allocations for the Teaching Service Commission (TSC).

    Minister Teixeira confirmed that the comprehensive list of senior teacher vacancies received initial publication in both Stabroek News and Guyana Chronicle on February 1st, with ongoing advertisements planned to address the critical shortage. The exact number of junior teacher vacancies remains undetermined, pending the Ministry of Education’s assessment of staffing requirements for newly established primary and secondary institutions.

    Responding to inquiries from We Invest in Nationhood’s (WIN) representative Tabita Sarabo-Halley, Teixeira emphasized the coordinated approach between the TSC and Education Ministry to achieve optimal balance between teacher supply and demand. She noted that numerous trained educators currently await employment opportunities within the expanding system.

    Concurrently, the government has allocated GY$11 million in the 2026 budget for extensive interior renovations of the TSC’s Brickdam office, described by officials as ‘deplorable.’ The rehabilitation project will include reconfiguration of third-floor board rooms, renovation of storage facilities, and repainting of the second floor. This follows last year’s GY$15.4 million expenditure on building improvements, demonstrating continued investment in educational infrastructure amid ongoing teacher recruitment challenges.

  • More care for children with special needs

    More care for children with special needs

    A transformative partnership between Digicel Foundation, Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, and The Mico University College CARE Centre is poised to revolutionize special needs education through significant technological enhancements. The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed at the ministry’s Kingston headquarters, will bring cutting-edge resources to support children with diverse learning requirements.

    Digicel Foundation Jamaica CEO Charmaine Daniels announced a substantial investment of US$75,000 toward the initiative, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to responsive partnership rather than presumed expertise. “We are here to work with you and to work for you,” Daniels stated, acknowledging the ministry and Mico’s pivotal roles in bringing the project to fruition.

    The comprehensive upgrade plan, detailed by Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr. Kasan Troupe, involves converting five classrooms to Innovative Learning Environment (ILE) standards with advanced information and communications technology infrastructure. The renovation encompasses smart room technology, window replacements, floor improvements, and door upgrades—all designed to create optimally configured spaces for special needs students.

    Concurrently, the ministry is addressing critical staffing shortages that have hampered assessment services. Dr. Troupe revealed expanded human resource allocations not only for Mico CARE but also for teacher’s colleges in Church, Sam Sharpe, and the College of Agriculture Science and Education. This strategic deployment aims to alleviate assessment backlogs across multiple regions, particularly serving Portland, St. Thomas, and St. Mary.

    Dr. Sharon Anderson-Morgan, Director of The Mico CARE Centre, highlighted the lifelong impact of such interventions, stating, “We’re investing in the right places… a difference is being made that will affect generations.” Established in 1980 through Jamaican-Dutch government cooperation, the center specializes in assessing children aged 4-18 experiencing academic challenges, emotional/behavioral barriers, specific learning difficulties, or unrecognized giftedness. The institution additionally provides guidance for parents and professional development for educators working with exceptional learners.

  • Bajan students end Trinis’ four-year reign in cross-border AI stock market game

    Bajan students end Trinis’ four-year reign in cross-border AI stock market game

    In a landmark achievement for technology-enhanced education, Barbados has unseated four-time defending champions Trinidad and Tobago to capture the Caribbean Title Trophy through an artificial intelligence-driven virtual stock market competition. The victory marks a significant breakthrough in financial literacy development across CARICOM nations, signaling a transformative shift in how students engage with economic concepts and market dynamics.

    The five victorious students—Loki Clarke, Noah Clarke, Theon Birkett, Sarrayah Yearwood and Ajani Webster Worrell—were honored at Barbados’ Ministry of Educational Transformation amidst gathering of educators, financial sector leaders, and regional stakeholders. Their triumph in the WizdomCRM Virtual Stock Market Game from September to December 2025 represents both national pride and educational innovation.

    Barbados Stock Exchange CEO Marlon Yarde characterized the achievement as revolutionary for Caribbean financial education. “This moment truly signals a new era in financial education in the Caribbean,” Yarde stated, emphasizing that Barbados had secured “a first for our country and an achievement of which we can be immensely proud.” He credited regional collaboration and technological innovation for driving this educational breakthrough.

    The AI-driven platform employed generative artificial intelligence and gamification techniques to simulate real-world financial decision-making. Participants managed virtual portfolios across regional and international markets, developing critical analytical skills through hands-on experience with market risks, data interpretation, and investment strategies.

    According to competition data, Barbadian students demonstrated remarkable engagement levels, executing 128,960 trades on the Jamaica Stock Exchange and 27,379 trades on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange. Their investment focus concentrated primarily within transportation, consumer products, and travel and leisure sectors.

    Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw described the victory as a historic turning point that reflects Barbados’ broader educational reform agenda. “We have officially claimed the Caribbean Title Trophy, ending four consecutive years of Trinidad and Tobago’s dominance,” she announced, adding that such initiatives position students as “global digital citizens ready to make their mark in a rapidly evolving world.”

    Several schools were recognized for their outstanding performance, including Alexandra, Queen’s College, St Michael’s, Combermere, Frederick Smith Secondary, Harrison College and Grantley Adams Memorial. Individual excellence was particularly noted in Loki Clarke, who executed 113,873 trades to secure top position, followed by Noah Clarke with 34,286 trades.

    The program originated during COVID-19 pandemic response efforts when WizdomCRM Caribbean Limited developed innovative remote learning solutions at the Ministry of Education’s request. Participants receive US$25,000 in virtual funds to practice budgeting and investing across multiple cross-border exchanges while benefiting from integrated AI tutoring systems.

    “We believe that every child should have an AI assistant at the palm of their hands,” said Country Manager Charielle Plowden, noting the platform’s expansion across additional Caribbean territories including Cayman Islands and Bahamas. The initiative continues to strengthen collaboration among stock exchanges, government ministries, and regional education bodies.

    Ethan Knowles, Regional Communications Supervisor at RF Merchant Bank and Trust, underscored the program’s significance for youth development: “We’re very pleased to support this programme which is empowering young people across the Caribbean to pursue flourishing financial futures.”

    For participants like Loki Clarke, the experience proved transformative: “My career path has been completely altered. The game has really helped me with this AI platform in developing my skills and also financial literacy.” While maintaining confidentiality about his specific strategy, Clarke acknowledged focusing primarily on Jamaican and Trinidadian markets with daily trading activities.

  • Cleveland Students To Learn About Agriculture in Belize

    Cleveland Students To Learn About Agriculture in Belize

    A cohort of four students from Cleveland is scheduled to arrive in Belize this Friday for an immersive educational program focused on agricultural innovation and sustainable business practices. The initiative represents a cross-cultural exchange designed to foster global awareness and community leadership among young learners.

    The program is jointly organized by two American educational organizations: Prolific Achievers Academy and entrepreneurial network Pink and Black Honors. According to Aharon Ben-Keymah, founder of Prolific Achievers Academy, the program aims to transform urban students into globally-conscious leaders by exposing them to diverse agricultural environments.

    “We’re transporting students from an industrial urban setting to a verdant oasis to unlock substantial opportunities for their home community,” Ben-Keymah explained in statements to News 5 Cleveland, highlighting the transformative potential of international agricultural education.

    The curriculum will encompass hands-on learning experiences across multiple disciplines including sustainable farming techniques, fashion innovation utilizing agricultural materials, and ecological landscape design. Among the participants, Slader Moss-Coleman expressed particular interest in studying landscape architecture and agricultural systems, noting: “I anticipate gaining innovative perspectives on garden construction methodologies and layout configurations that could enhance environmental quality and promote healthier ecosystems.”

    For Belize, the initiative presents a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the nation’s advancements in agricultural technology, creative industries, and environmental conservation to international youth. Educational leaders emphasize the growing importance of agribusiness education, with Ben-Keymah observing: “We perceive increasing demand for youth engagement in the expanding agribusiness sector.” The program underscores the evolving nature of agricultural education as a gateway to international cooperation and sustainable development.

  • UWI rises in global rankings

    UWI rises in global rankings

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the West Indies (UWI) has achieved a remarkable milestone by ascending into the elite top three percent of universities globally, as confirmed by the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2026. This prestigious recognition solidifies UWI’s position among the world’s leading academic institutions.

    The THE rankings, considered the gold standard in higher education evaluation, assessed 2,191 qualifying universities from 115 countries this year. The comprehensive methodology examines multiple performance indicators including teaching excellence, research output, knowledge dissemination, and international engagement.

    Despite increasing global competition from over 33,000 universities worldwide, UWI has demonstrated consistent improvement in its relative standing. The institution now ranks within the top 3.6% globally, marking significant progress in the international academic landscape.

    Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles credited this achievement to the university’s rigorous adherence to its strategic development plan. “Our unwavering commitment to our strategic framework has served as an expert navigator, ensuring we remain focused on enhancing our intellectual productivity, academic reputation, and global partnership network,” Beckles stated. “These ranking results quantitatively validate the substantial collective efforts of our institution.”

    The Vice-Chancellor highlighted particularly impressive gains in research quality, noting that UWI scholars have substantially increased the recognition and impact of their academic publications and presentations compared to previous years.

    Remarkably, this advancement comes despite ongoing financial challenges, demonstrating the institution’s ability to exceed expectations while operating under fiscal constraints. Beckles characterized the achievement as an “inter-generational accomplishment” as the university approaches its centennial celebration in 2048.

  • AI ‘reshapes skills, not jobs’, says education minister

    AI ‘reshapes skills, not jobs’, says education minister

    In a significant address at the annual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Expo, Antigua and Barbuda’s Education Minister Daryll Matthew presented a compelling vision of artificial intelligence as a transformative partner rather than a threat to skilled professions. The minister’s remarks, delivered during Wednesday’s opening ceremony, positioned practical expertise as the cornerstone of sustainable national development.

    Minister Matthew articulated that technological advancements are amplifying rather than diminishing the need for adaptable, skilled workers. “No country can build sustainably without engineers, technicians, artisans, coders, electricians, hospitality professionals and agro-processors,” he stated, emphasizing that these competencies form the nucleus of national progress. While acknowledging AI’s data processing capabilities, Matthew highlighted the irreplaceable human elements of system installation, infrastructure maintenance, results interpretation, and practical problem-solving.

    This philosophy is formally embedded within the government’s Education Sector Strategy, which elevates technical and vocational training to equal standing with traditional academic pathways. The strategy specifically targets enhanced employability, formal certification, and economic resilience through its implementation.

    Echoing these sentiments, Director of Education Clare Browne addressed the ceremony under the expo’s theme “Design, Develop, Learn and Grow.” Browne asserted that “a modern education system must equip students to shape the digital world, not just navigate it,” advocating for seamless integration of academic learning with technical and vocational qualifications.

    The two-day exposition showcases extensive student innovation across diverse fields including fashion design, electronics, condiment production, floral artistry, and crafts. The opening ceremony featured a student-led fashion show, providing tangible demonstration of the creative and technical skills being cultivated through Antigua and Barbuda’s renewed educational focus.

  • UASD launches virtual diploma programs for Dominicans living abroad

    UASD launches virtual diploma programs for Dominicans living abroad

    The Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), recognized as the oldest university in the Americas, has unveiled an innovative initiative to deliver fully virtual diploma programs specifically tailored for Dominicans residing overseas. This groundbreaking educational expansion will be administered through the university’s New York office in partnership with the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences’ Continuing Education Unit.

    The strategic program aims to fortify academic connections with the extensive Dominican diaspora while addressing critical professional development needs among expatriate communities across the United States, Europe, and other international regions. Professor Ileana Ramírez Portorreal emphasized the institution’s deepened commitment to supporting global Dominican professionals through these offerings, highlighting their practical curriculum designed for immediate application in contemporary business environments.

    Three specialized diploma programs comprise the initial launch: A comprehensive 80-hour Diploma in Foreign Trade and Customs Operations conducted Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; a 64-hour Diploma in Senior Management held during identical Sunday hours; and a 60-hour Diploma in Business Strategies and Digital Marketing offered Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

    The curriculum has been meticulously developed by subject matter experts to align with the unique professional challenges faced by Dominicans abroad. All instruction will be delivered through live virtual sessions, facilitating real-time interaction with instructors, access to continuously updated materials, and sustained academic support throughout each program.

    Successful participants will receive formal certification endorsed by UASD, with intentionally limited enrollment capacities to maintain educational quality and personalized attention. Prospective students may obtain additional information or complete registration via WhatsApp at 908-395-5608 or email at uasdnewyork@uasd.edu.do.

  • Inside Belize’s Agriculture High School Where Students Grow Futures

    Inside Belize’s Agriculture High School Where Students Grow Futures

    Nestled within the serene landscape of Trinidad Village, the Belize High School of Agriculture (BHSA) represents an educational revolution where classroom instruction seamlessly integrates with practical agricultural training. This unique institution provides completely free secondary education, including daily nutritious meals, transportation, and comprehensive hands-on learning experiences that equip students with real-world skills.

    Principal Abel Celiz emphasizes the school’s distinctive agricultural focus: “We maintain a diverse array of agricultural programs that provide students with practical experiences and genuine life skills, ultimately shaping them into productive citizens.” The curriculum extends far beyond traditional academics, immersing students in daily agricultural operations from crop cultivation and animal husbandry to tilapia farming, poultry management, and apiculture.

    The transformative impact on students is profound. Delsi Deodanes, a student from San Carlos, describes the environment as familial: “Being here feels like I’m in my village home where I’ve grown. We practice agriculture, harvest our own food, and sell in the market.” For many attendees, the elimination of financial barriers through free tuition creates unprecedented educational opportunities.

    Student Zaire Gonzalez highlights the practical benefits: “This institution represents a tremendous benefit for me. I work part-time to support my mother and two brothers, while simultaneously pursuing my education and anticipating graduation.”

    The school’s holistic approach extends to extracurricular activities including sports, cultural clubs, cadet programs, music, and student government—all designed to foster well-rounded development rooted in Belizean cultural values.

    BHSA’s legacy of excellence is demonstrated through its distinguished alumni. Agriculture Director Ernesto Pech, a 29-year veteran of the institution, notes that graduates include Dr. Pasqual (current Chief Agricultural Officer), Dr. Luciano Chi (SIRDI researcher), and multiple directors within the Ministry of Agriculture.

    Second Form student Tracy Mojica from San Felipe Village embodies the school’s evolving demographic: “My village primarily focuses on cattle, and I want to demonstrate that women can excel in farming alongside men.”

    The institution’s practical impact extends to local commerce, with BHSA products now available in northern Belizean shops—demonstrating how educational institutions can directly address community needs while cultivating tomorrow’s agricultural leaders.

  • Education Minister addresses AI use in CXC SBA’s

    Education Minister addresses AI use in CXC SBA’s

    Caribbean education systems are confronting new challenges to academic integrity as they implement digital transformation initiatives. Kenson Casimir, Minister for Education and Digital Transformation, has recognized escalating concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) utilization in Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) School-Based Assessments (SBAs). This development follows CXC’s announcement integrating both written and digital components into examinations, a modernization effort designed to equip students for a technology-centric future.

    The ministerial address highlighted the urgent necessity for policy frameworks and legislative measures to govern AI’s responsible application within educational environments. Minister Casimir emphasized that while AI presents remarkable opportunities for enhancing learning and development, its potential for misuse demands immediate protective measures. He specifically warned against permitting scenarios where students complete SBAs entirely through AI tools without facing appropriate accountability.

    Casimir characterized AI as an unavoidable transformative power that must be incorporated into human development strategies. He advocated for its responsible deployment to contribute to societal advancement while simultaneously cautioning that comprehensive legislation is essential to prevent unethical practices. Although policy discussions remain ongoing, the minister confirmed the issue would ultimately require deliberation at the Cabinet level. Rejecting fear-based decision-making, Casimir affirmed AI’s existential reality and its capacity to revolutionize education when properly harnessed, provided clear consequences for misuse are established and communicated throughout academic institutions.

  • New Scholarship Opens Door for Girls in Tech

    New Scholarship Opens Door for Girls in Tech

    A groundbreaking educational partnership between Saint Ignatius High School in Belize and Mexico’s Universidad Politécnica de Bacalar (UPB) has established an annual scholarship program specifically designed to empower young women pursuing careers in technology. The five-year agreement, formally announced during a January 22nd signing ceremony in Santa Elena, will provide full tuition support for one female student annually to study software engineering through UPB’s information technology and digital innovation program.

    The initiative, extending through 2029, represents a strategic effort to address gender disparities in Belize’s technology sector by creating structured pathways for female participation. Principal Jeaneane Neal of Saint Ignatius High School projected that the partnership will produce at least five professionally trained software engineers for Belize by 2030, significantly boosting the nation’s technical workforce.

    Selection for the prestigious scholarship involves a rigorous assessment process combined with comprehensive mentorship preparation. Students currently receive guidance from Byron Cera, identified as Belize’s sole licensed network engineer, ensuring candidates are thoroughly prepared for their international educational experience. The program seeks academically exceptional students with demonstrated strength in STEM subjects, while simultaneously encouraging broader female participation in technology fields.

    Beyond financial support, the scholarship provides successful candidates access to an international network of women working in technology, creating valuable professional connections and mentorship opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Principal Neal emphasized the program’s broader mission: “We want to ensure that our young girls know that anything is possible,” highlighting the initiative’s role in challenging gender stereotypes and expanding career aspirations for Belizean women.