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  • Education Ministry announces several changes to CXC, national exams

    Education Ministry announces several changes to CXC, national exams

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s Ministry of Education has unveiled comprehensive modifications to its national and regional examination framework for the 2025-2026 academic period. The Category 5 hurricane, which made landfall on October 28, 2025, precipitated widespread displacement of students and educators, prolonged educational interruptions, and inflicted significant psychological distress across affected communities.

    The ministry’s newly released bulletin emphasizes its commitment to maintaining assessment integrity while implementing responsive measures that acknowledge the extraordinary challenges facing educational institutions. “Our revised examination administration prioritizes fairness and sensitivity to the realities confronting our schools and communities,” the ministry stated.

    At the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) level, institutions spared from the hurricane’s direct impact will proceed with standard Papers 1 and 2 administration, supplemented by concessions for school-based assessments (SBAs), waived late fees, and optional deferral provisions. Severely affected parishes will receive additional accommodations, including the option to complete only Paper 1 with equivalent SBA concessions and fee exemptions.

    National assessments undergo significant adjustments: The Grade Two Diagnostic Test will be suspended until 2026-2027, though teachers will receive alternative diagnostic tools for school-based evaluation. Similarly, the Grade Nine Achievement Test (GNAT) will be paused for 2026, with regional education officers overseeing student reintegration into formal education systems.

    The ministry has extended registration deadlines for June 2026 City & Guilds examinations in Mathematics Skills (#3850), English Skills (#3850), and Customer Service (#8992), moving the cutoff to February 27, 2026. Speaking and Listening assessments will expand from one to three weeks, with results submission extended into July 2026 and a three-week resit window introduced. Final results will publish on August 28, 2026.

    To support academic recovery, the government will distribute complimentary Mathematics and English workbooks (stages one-three) and Customer Service materials (level one) to severely impacted regions by January 2026. Digital resources will be available nationwide, complemented by virtual capacity-building sessions for educators and students.

    An emergency November 2026 examination series will provide additional opportunities, featuring extended registration through August 31, 2026, and results publication scheduled for February 25, 2027. The 2025 National Vocational Qualification of Jamaica examinations have been postponed indefinitely.

    Financial support includes a $197.66 million fee reduction package for students in hardest-hit parishes, supplementing existing government subsidies through funding from the Overseas Examinations Commission.

  • Principals encouraged to utilise SBA concession offered by CXC

    Principals encouraged to utilise SBA concession offered by CXC

    Jamaican educational authorities are urging school principals to implement special academic concessions approved by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) for students affected by recent natural disasters. The accommodations specifically address challenges related to School-Based Assessments (SBAs) for the May/June 2026 examination period.

    Dr. Nicole Manning, Director of Operations at CXC, emphasized the urgency during a press conference at the Overseas Examinations Commission headquarters in Kingston. She detailed how the concessions allow for certain components to be omitted from the assessment process, particularly for candidates reattempting their SBAs. Students currently have approximately three to four months to complete these modified requirements under the extended submission deadline of June 15 for teachers.

    The concessions were developed in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28. The hurricane caused significant educational disruptions, including the destruction of completed SBAs and personal belongings. Dr. Manning explained that while some students had advanced substantially in their two-year SBA preparation for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), many others suffered catastrophic losses requiring institutional compassion.

    Notably, the concessions extend beyond general assessment requirements to include specific accommodations for science disciplines. Laboratory work requirements have been substantially reduced—for instance, physics practicals have been cut from the traditional 16 labs to a minimum of 8, while maintaining essential educational standards.

    The special provisions document remains exclusively available to Jamaican educational institutions through the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, with strict instructions against external distribution. This targeted approach ensures that support reaches those most affected while maintaining assessment integrity.

  • Sir Ronald Sanders is new UG Chancellor

    Sir Ronald Sanders is new UG Chancellor

    In a significant development for Caribbean academia, His Excellency Sir Ronald Sanders has been formally installed as the new Chancellor of the University of Guyana. The Guyanese-born diplomat, currently serving as Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States, assumes this prestigious role following his election by the University’s Council in accordance with Section 9 of the University of Guyana Act.

    President Irfaan Ali publicly endorsed the appointment, emphasizing Sanders’ exceptional qualifications in a presidential statement. “Sir Ronald brings to this role an exceptional record of scholarship, public service, and international engagement that aligns closely with the University’s aspirations for academic excellence and global visibility,” President Ali remarked, highlighting the appointment’s significance for Guyana’s educational landscape.

    The position became vacant after Professor John Edward Greene completed his distinguished tenure. President Ali expressed gratitude for Greene’s contributions, noting his “dedicated service to the University and his valued contribution to its development and standing.” Professor Greene, also Guyanese-born, previously served as Assistant Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

    Sir Ronald’s professional journey began in Guyana as the youngest General Manager of the now-defunct state-owned Guyana Broadcasting Service before he migrated to Antigua and Barbuda. His diplomatic career flourished under the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party administration, resulting in appointments to the United Kingdom and United States.

    Academic credentials distinguish the new Chancellor, including a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Sussex, an Honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of the West Indies, and an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Guyana. His scholarly background includes roles as Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford, Senior Research Fellow at the University of London’s Institute of Commonwealth Studies, and Senior Fellow at the University of Toronto’s Massey College.

    Internationally recognized as one of the Caribbean’s most accomplished diplomats, Sir Ronald has presided for three terms over the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States—an unprecedented achievement. His expertise in multilateral diplomacy and scholarship on small states has earned him considerable international respect.

    President Ali concluded that Sanders’ leadership would “strengthen the University’s role at the heart of Guyana’s emerging knowledge economy,” particularly during a period of substantial investment in human capital development.

  • Nigerian professionals to bolster mathematics and science teaching in Saint Kitts and Nevis

    Nigerian professionals to bolster mathematics and science teaching in Saint Kitts and Nevis

    In a significant bilateral educational initiative, five Nigerian education specialists have arrived in Saint Kitts and Nevis to enhance mathematics and science instruction throughout the federation. The volunteers, deployed through the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), were formally welcomed during a ceremony at the Joseph N. France General Hospital on December 29, 2025.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley presided over the reception, emphasizing that the collaboration represents both nations’ shared dedication to educational advancement and healthcare improvement. The Nigerian contingent forms part of a larger deployment of seventeen professionals, with twelve additional specialists assigned to reinforce the nation’s healthcare system for a two-year period.

    Dr. Hanley characterized the incoming educators not merely as international partners but as ‘brothers and sisters,’ highlighting the deep diplomatic ties between the Caribbean nation and Nigeria. The education minister further revealed ongoing discussions with Nigerian authorities regarding expanded cooperation in specialized education domains, including autism support, disability services, and potential scholarship programs.

    The successful implementation of this knowledge exchange program received high-level political backing from Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and Senior Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Denzil Douglas, both of whom attended the welcoming ceremony. This educational partnership signifies growing South-South cooperation and represents a practical manifestation of intercontinental solidarity in addressing critical development needs through specialized expertise sharing.

  • School fights in the spotlight

    School fights in the spotlight

    The Trinidad and Tobago Education Ministry has intensified its focus on addressing escalating conflict among teenagers and pre-teens that frequently escalates into violent outbursts within school settings. While school altercations are not a new phenomenon, their increasing frequency has prompted urgent ministerial attention.

    Analysis indicates that oversized classrooms significantly contribute to this troubling trend by hindering student familiarity and relationship-building. While reducing class sizes presents practical challenges, the Ministry recommends implementing structured programs to foster acquaintance and camaraderie among students. Educational experts suggest reviving bus excursions as a dual-purpose solution that simultaneously promotes national awareness and strengthens classroom bonds.

    Another proposed initiative involves establishing birthday clubs within classrooms, creating opportunities for celebratory gatherings that enhance peer relationships through shared experiences and delicacies.

    The deterioration of respect for school authority represents another critical concern, with teachers increasingly perceived as ordinary individuals rather than respected figures. In response to reported physical confrontations between educators and students, the Ministry recommends mandatory martial arts training for all teaching staff to provide non-violent conflict resolution skills.

    Regarding disciplinary approaches, officials emphasize that many students remain unaware that fighting carries similar legal consequences to weapon possession or drug offenses. The Ministry advocates for measured police intervention in school conflicts, recommending that most incidents be referred to parent-teacher associations for resolution.

    Developmental considerations highlight that adolescence often involves behavioral changes and violations beyond students’ conscious control, raising ethical concerns about administering custodial punishment for actions during this transitional period.

    With the approaching Carnival season anticipated to increase availability of harmful substances, the Ministry stresses enhanced drug awareness programs. Research consistently demonstrates that substance abuse correlates strongly with poor academic performance, increased absenteeism, and higher dropout rates.

    The World Health Organization underscores the critical importance of physical activity, revealing that 80% of adolescents fail to meet recommended activity levels. This inactivity contributes significantly to rising cases of hypertension and diabetes among youth, conditions previously associated primarily with adulthood.

    The Ministry proposes legislative mandates requiring all schools to employ trained physical education instructors, sports coaches, and qualified dietitians. Simultaneously, parents are urged to monitor and limit children’s screen time, particularly during weekends, to prevent sedentary lifestyles that exacerbate health risks.

  • CXC moving to address high rates of absenteeism

    CXC moving to address high rates of absenteeism

    The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is grappling with a persistent and troubling trend of absenteeism among students registered for its Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. This phenomenon represents both a significant financial concern and an educational challenge across the region.

    Dr. Nicole Manning, CXC’s Director of Operations, confirmed the organization is actively investigating the root causes through comprehensive surveys. The financial implications are substantial, with examination fees—often covered by governments or parents—being effectively wasted when students fail to appear for their tests.

    According to CXC’s research, the primary reason students skip examinations is a perceived lack of preparation. Many candidates reportedly feel insufficiently ready to demonstrate their competencies, leading them to avoid sitting the exams entirely. Dr. Manning emphasized the council’s position that students should attempt examinations regardless of their preparedness level, noting that many underestimate their actual knowledge and recall abilities during assessment situations.

    Beyond preparation anxiety, illness and other personal factors contribute to absentee rates. Particularly concerning is the pattern emerging in newer, vocationally-oriented subjects critical to regional development. Fields such as green engineering along with logistics and supply chain management are experiencing disproportionately high absence rates, despite strong performance metrics among examinees who do participate.

    Dr. Manning acknowledged evolving attitudes toward education among younger generations, prompting CXC to pursue innovative solutions through digital transformation. The council has developed the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), a modularized alternative to traditional CSEC and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) certifications.

    This new micro-credential system, scheduled for pilot implementation in May/June 2025 with over 6,000 participants—more than double initial projections—offers students unprecedented flexibility. The CTEC framework allows candidates to build qualifications incrementally through stackable modules, enabling them to customize their educational profiles according to individual interests and career aspirations.

    CXC has already released marginalized syllabuses for Mathematics, English A, English B, and Integrated Science, with examinations set to commence in 2027. This approach ensures that even students unsuccessful in comprehensive CSEC examinations can still attain certification through CTEC module completion.

    Dr. Manning emphasized that addressing absenteeism, supporting student development, and adapting to contemporary educational needs remain central priorities for CXC as it transforms its operational models to better serve Caribbean youth.

  • Our certification is world class, says CXC

    Our certification is world class, says CXC

    The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has vigorously reaffirmed its position as a globally respected educational institution, with leadership emphasizing its alignment with international standards. Dr. Nicole Manning, Director of Operations, provided exclusive commentary to Barbados TODAY addressing recent criticisms while highlighting the organization’s expanding international credibility.

    Executive leadership, including CEO and Registrar Dr. Wayne Wesley, recently acknowledged public scrutiny during a staff awards ceremony while reaffirming the Council’s commitment to administering examinations with unwavering professionalism and integrity. The organization maintains that its certification processes meet rigorous global benchmarks.

    Recent collaborative engagements with international credential evaluation services, particularly World Education Services (WES), have substantially strengthened CXC’s global positioning. According to Dr. Manning, these partnerships have yielded positive feedback from educational institutions across six different countries worldwide, with many reporting satisfaction with Caribbean students’ qualifications and academic preparedness.

    The Council’s Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) program offers significant advantages for students pursuing international education, including course exemptions and degree pathway acceleration. Notably, CAPE qualifications can lead to associate degree equivalency, potentially reducing undergraduate completion time by up to two years at certain institutions.

    Dr. Manning emphasized that CXC certifications enjoy widespread acceptance at prestigious global universities, including Oxford, Yale, and Harvard. This recognition demonstrates the qualifications’ robustness and eliminates any substantive questions regarding their international validity. The Council continues to encourage Caribbean stakeholders to recognize the inherent value of their regional educational credentials.

  • Over 10 000 students to sit online exams next month

    Over 10 000 students to sit online exams next month

    The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is pioneering a transformative shift in regional assessment methods by implementing fully digital multiple-choice examinations for the January sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC). This landmark initiative will see over 10,000 students participating in mandatory electronic testing, eliminating traditional paper-based answer sheets in favor of computer-based selection.

    Dr. Nicole Manning, CXC’s Director of Operations, confirmed in an exclusive interview that this represents a decisive evolution in secondary education assessment across the Caribbean region. While electronic testing isn’t entirely new to CXC, January 2024 marks the first complete transition to digital administration for multiple-choice components.

    The examination framework employs a hybrid model for comprehensive assessment. While multiple-choice sections will be fully digital, Paper Two will appear on-screen while candidates write responses on paper, creating a transitional approach that balances technological adaptation with familiar examination techniques.

    Infrastructure readiness and examination security have been paramount considerations in this digital rollout. CXC has implemented robust safeguards including the deployment of 18 additional specialized invigilators alongside detailed operational manuals. The council has proactively engaged telecommunications and utility companies across participating territories to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity and power supply during critical examination periods.

    Dr. Manning emphasized that the January sitting was strategically selected for initial implementation due to its smaller candidate pool of approximately 10,000 subject entries, compared to the May/June session which typically involves over 100,000 candidates across nearly 600,000 subject areas. This scaled approach allows for manageable infrastructure testing and operational refinement.

    The digital initiative encompasses 13 CSEC subjects including Mathematics, English, Principles of Business, Principles of Accounts, multiple languages, and core sciences. While January participation is compulsory, the May/June 2024 sitting will maintain electronic testing as an optional component, with paper-based alternatives remaining available.

    This transition represents a significant step toward CXC’s long-envisioned goal of on-demand examinations, potentially enabling faster results processing and greater administrative agility across the Caribbean education system. The success of January’s digital rollout could pave the way for mandatory electronic testing across all examination sessions in future years.

  • Education Ministry strengthening “quality and accountability”

    Education Ministry strengthening “quality and accountability”

    In a significant move to transform its educational landscape, Guyana’s Ministry of Education has officially inaugurated the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA), marking a pivotal step toward enhancing school leadership and institutional accountability. The launch ceremony at Pegasus Corporate Suites on December 15, 2025, gathered education officials and practitioners to witness what authorities describe as a cornerstone initiative for improving learning outcomes nationwide.

    Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain outlined an ambitious package of reforms scheduled for implementation in early 2026. These measures include reinstating teacher appraisals after a five-year hiatus, introducing performance report cards for all schools and regional education departments, and establishing a transparent school ranking system. ‘When there is a clamour for a particular school, then it’s based on the ranking and not necessarily what we think the good schools are,’ Hussain stated, emphasizing data-driven decision making.

    NELA represents a collaborative effort funded by the Global Partnership for Education and the Inter-American Development Bank, with implementation support from UNESCO’s International Institute for Educational Planning. The inaugural cohort comprises 100 education professionals—including school administrators, education officers, and ministry staff—who will undergo comprehensive leadership training.

    Complementing NELA’s launch, the ministry will soon introduce a Continuous Professional Development Policy alongside national teacher awards. Hussain explained this dual approach: ‘You have a system where teachers are held accountable but you also have a system where those who have excelled are rewarded for their efforts.’

    The academy’s mandate extends beyond conventional training, encompassing research into systemic challenges and solutions for parental engagement, school attractiveness, and leadership development. Hussain highlighted the need for ‘independence of thought’ among education leaders, citing concerning examples where school administrators resisted basic responsibilities like operating water systems installed with IDB support.

    Education Minister Sonia Parag addressed the gathering, noting that while infrastructure expansion—with over 100 schools built since 2020—and technological integration have improved access, transformational leadership remains crucial. ‘When this tier is strong, systems improve, teaching improves, learning improves and most importantly opportunity expands,’ Parag asserted, describing NELA’s mission to develop empathetic, ethical, and data-driven leaders.

    The initial 100 participants will engage in an 18-month blended learning program combining theoretical instruction with practical applications in educational leadership, mentoring, and collaborative improvement strategies.

  • Niger Timothy Houston graduates as Agricultural Engineer from EARTH University

    Niger Timothy Houston graduates as Agricultural Engineer from EARTH University

    Grenada has marked a significant educational achievement with Niger Timothy Houston’s graduation as an Agricultural Engineer from EARTH University in Costa Rica. The December 5th ceremony recognized 108 graduates from 27 countries, highlighting Grenada’s growing commitment to sustainable agriculture education.

    Houston represents an expanding cohort of Grenadian students choosing EARTH University for advanced training in sustainable agriculture. With four currently enrolled students and one previous graduate, this educational partnership strengthens as Grenada prioritizes agricultural modernization and food security resilience.

    In reflective remarks, Houston described his EARTH University experience as fundamentally transformative, providing both technical skills and personal development. “EARTH has equipped me with the confidence, global perspective, and practical abilities to serve Grenada meaningfully,” he stated, emphasizing the program’s focus on real-world problem solving and leadership development. Houston actively encouraged other young Grenadians to pursue this educational opportunity.

    The graduation ceremony attracted significant support from international education advocates. Dr. Khan Nedd, Chair of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Board of Trustees and EARTH University director, attended to affirm the importance of educational investments that strengthen communities. Dr. Nedd’s philanthropic leadership aligns with EARTH’s mission to prepare professionals for agricultural, climate, and equity challenges.

    Victor Sánchez of EARTH’s Development and Advancement Division highlighted the university’s comprehensive educational approach, combining technical training with character development. “Our program cultivates persistence, discipline, and environmental responsibility while preparing students for global leadership,” Sánchez noted, expressing particular confidence in Grenadian students’ potential.

    Belmont Estate, through Managing Director Shadel Nyack Compton, has developed a robust partnership with EARTH University, providing internship opportunities for third-year students and graduates. Compton expressed strong endorsement of EARTH’s educational model, stating, “This institution delivers exactly the training Grenada needs to build an innovative, sustainable agricultural future.”

    The graduation celebrations concluded with vibrant cultural presentations featuring active participation from Grenadian students, symbolizing both national pride and global connectivity. This educational milestone represents Grenada’s strategic investment in developing leaders capable of advancing climate-smart agriculture and rural transformation.