Letter of the Day | Productivity is about who we are

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I appreciate The Sunday Gleaner editorial of March 22, titled, “Building Productivity,” and its thoughtful focus on aligning education, training, research, and innovation with key areas of national investment. This integrated approach is indeed essential if Jamaica is to break free from its cycle of low productivity. However, I believe the argument, while valid, remains incomplete. It lacks a fundamental element without which no system. No matter how well designed, a clearly expressed set of core values can achieve coherence or sustainability.

Productivity is not just a technical outcome of better systems; it reflects the cultural values a society holds. In high-performing countries like Estonia, Finland, Singapore, and Germany, education goes beyond skill acquisition to intentionally foster values that influence behaviour, attitudes, and expectations. These values, such as autonomy, trust, rigour, collaboration, equity, and practical excellence, constitute the invisible framework that supports their systems.

For example, Finland’s focus on trust and teacher independence creates an environment where innovation and critical thinking thrive. Germany’s dedication to practical excellence is embedded in its dual education system, smoothly connecting classroom learning with industry needs. Singapore’s culture of discipline and adaptability ensures its workforce remains prepared for the future. Estonia’s “aim high” attitude encourages ambition and resilience, resulting in a highly skilled digital workforce.

The lesson for Jamaica is clear: systems do not operate in isolation. They are driven and maintained by values. Without a shared national ethos, our efforts risk becoming disjointed, well-meant initiatives working in isolation, lacking cohesion and lasting impact.

Core values perform several critical functions. They shape not only what is taught, but how it is taught and why it matters. They align educational outcomes with labour market needs, ensuring that graduates are not only qualified but capable. They foster a culture of high expectations and adaptability, essential in a rapidly changing global economy. And importantly, they promote equity and social cohesion, ensuring that productivity gains are broad-based and sustainable.

If Jamaica is committed to boosting productivity, then the discussion must delve deeper. We need to ask: What kind of people are we shaping? What values will steer our national growth? Until these questions are addressed, policy reforms, no matter how essential, will remain fundamentally weak.

Ultimately, productivity is not just about what we do, but about who we are.

FR. DONALD CHAMBERS

frdon63@hotmail.com