An important milestone has been achieved in efforts to review and reform the Cayman Islands education service, with the completion of the report on the 2005 National Education Conference.
The report, called The National Consensus on the Future of Education in the Cayman Islands, will be tabled in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, 12 October, by Education Minister Alden McLaughlin.
Members of the Legislative Assembly will have the opportunity to debate the report, and present their points and counterpoints, before the final version is voted upon for adoption, as the blueprint for reform of the Education Service in the Cayman Islands.
The draft report provides a summary of views, concerns and aspirations for our national education service, as expressed by a wide cross-section of stakeholders. This included parents, educators, the business sector, students, politicians, the media and representatives of key public sector agencies and the community at large.
The report also clearly outlines the Ministry’s response to these findings. It presents policy implications and proposed strategic measures to be taken by the Ministry, to bring about innovation and change in the education service.
In commenting on the report, Mr. McLaughlin stated, ‘The Government has received tough messages from the stakeholders in our education system. They have told us that the way we administer the education services in these islands must change. And they have told us that the quality of the education product must be improved. Our response is to accept the hard truths, take the difficult decisions and make the critical changes that are necessary to improve education in these Islands.’
He expressed his gratitude to the many persons who shared their views and contributed to the success of the Conference. He also acknowledged the work of a special report-writing committee chaired by Education Permanent Secretary Angela Martins, along with Deputy Permanent Secretary Mary Rodrigues, Chief Inspector of Schools Helena McVeigh, and School Development Advisor Gareth Long.
‘I am satisfied that the conference report provides an accurate and concise account of the views of stakeholders, and also makes clear the Ministry’s position in response to the feedback as well as how we propose to transform the education system to bring about real change and improvement. Change brings disquiet, resistance and even casualties, but change we must, and change we shall,’ said Mr. McLaughlin.
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