These consultations are intended to review and suggest recommendations for the current Education Act of 2005. Saint Lucia Teachers’ Union President, Don Howell, has voiced his concern for the current method of consultations. Howell says the Union needs to be more involved in the review process as teachers must engage with the Act daily.

 “The Act will affect everyone in Saint Lucia. Importantly, it impacts the practitioners, including teachers, principals and counsellors. One-time meetings and town hall presentations are not enough,” he said.

One issue up for discussion is the modern hair policy for both boys and girls. At present, boys are prohibited from growing their hair to a certain length, and girls are not allowed to wear braids.

The draft new hair policy focuses on self-expression and non-discrimination. “All students have the right to express their individuality, including hairstyle choices, without facing discrimination, prejudice, or harassment. The school shall not impose any restrictive grooming policies solely based on gender,” the draft policy read.

Howell says the schedule for the cojsultation period was posted, but it did not include a forum for educators to add their suggestions. The SLTU President is adamant that the government has a duty to engage teachers on these matters.

 “The SLTU was astonished at the level of regard that was given to teachers and principals regarding the Education Act Review. The Ministry of Education’s team was reluctant to have engagements specifically for teachers and principals,” the Union President laments. Without teachers actively involed, he says, the revised Act will be missing valuable input.

“The current meetings will discuss the proposals, but there will still be a gap because the final draft document will be different from what the stakeholders are currently discussing. The practitioners deserve the same level of engagement as everyone else,” he argued.

These consultations form part of the revolution of the education sector. In the coming academic year, four secondary schools will transition into TVET schools. This initiative falls in line with global trends pointing to a high demand for skilled labourers.