Among the issues discussed was the availability of learning devices to enable secondary school students to complete their various assignments. According to Hon. Edward, laptops will replace the dysfunctional e-books that were distributed in 2021.
“As promised, we have reinstated the one-laptop-per-child programme, and every child entering the secondary school system is the recipient of a government-issued laptop computer,” the Minister said in his address, adding that, “This year, special provisions have been made for the fifth formers, who were the recipients of LernBooks - the majority of which became dysfunctional - did not adequately serve their intended purpose. Every fifth form student has been issued a brand new laptop to facilitate SBAs and general learning support.”
Edward reminded students to take care of the devices as they are intended for the completion of assignments. “Students are reminded that the devices are to be used to support academic pursuits and that they must take responsibility for their upkeep and maintenance.”
The Education Minister also stated that the government plans to cover the cost of every CXC subject for students in the future. “It is the intention of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre - that in the not-too-distant future - the government will be in a position to absorb every CXC and CSEC-related examination cost. It is the intention of the government that students will write all subjects for which they qualify at no cost to the students or parents,” he said.
While the Minister was pleased to announce the increase of the teachers’ monthly allowance by $600, the passing of two educators saddened him. Teachers Oneil Fontenelle and Sherman Sylvester passed away suddenly and shook the teaching fraternity. “We mourn the recent and sudden passing of two teachers of our fraternity who dedicated their lives to shaping young minds. Their contributions will forever be etched in the minds of all teachers.”
Finally, Edward urged parents to remain active in their children’s education, to feed them healthy meals, and to communicate with teachers during this new academic year.
