Education ministry commits to technological development of schools

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade last week provided a platform to spark innovative ideas for transforming Jamaica’s education system at the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference.

During Plenary Session 5, ‘Transforming Education in Jamaica in the Digital Age’, during the three-day conference, Dr Kevin Brown, president of the University of Technology (UTech), led a panel of educators, industry leaders, policymakers, and members of the diaspora in a discussion on the groundbreaking strategies and collaborative efforts to revolutionise Jamaica’s education system through digital integration.

Speaking at the plenary session, Fayval Williams, minister of education and youth, asserted, “Our commitment to transforming education is not just about adopting new technologies but about creating a future where every Jamaican student can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”

During the discussion, Williams emphasised the importance of embracing change and innovation.

“By integrating digital tools and STE(A)M curricula, we are not only preparing our students for the challenges ahead, but also inspiring them to become the innovators of tomorrow,” she reiterated to the audience.

Williams further noted the government’s commitment to infrastructure and technology.

“We are accelerating the development of our schools, ensuring they are equipped with the latest technology. This commitment is backed by a robust budget, demonstrating our dedication to creating a modern, efficient educational environment.”

The panel discussion highlighted various challenges and strategies for effectively integrating digital tools and STE(A)M curricula. Panellists shared success stories and best practices from other regions and industries, illustrating the potential benefits of a collaborative approach. The exchange of ideas underscored a need for partnerships to drive meaningful change in the education sector.

A breakout session entitled ‘Revolutionising Education in Jamaica: From Early Childhood to Tertiary’ featured Dr Kasan Troupe, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Education and Youth, Brown and Trisha Williams-Singh, chair of the Early Childhood Commission.

“Our goal at the ministry is to focus on quality leadership in educational institutions, aiming to bring access, equity, and quality to aid in student development,” Troupe stated. “The policies discussed are designed to customise pathways for students, ensuring they receive appropriate and effective education at every stage.”