A US$4 million Education Enhancement Project (EEP) which was funded by a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan is expected to foster improvements in the standard of work within technical vocational fields here.
The Education Enhancement Project, which was launched at the Public Service Training Center this afternoon, is expected to focus on improving human resource tenacity, education, and aid in the construction and maintenance of schools, according to officials.
Speaking at the launching ceremony was Minister for Education Petter St. Jean, who highlighted the importance of technical studies to Dominican society and economy.
“It needs to be recognized that our society needs not only doctors and lawyers but also engineers, construction workers, plumbers, hairdressers, cooks, farmers and skilled persons. It is only through the provision of quality training in these technical vocational areas that Dominican students will attain proper standards of work in these areas. The attainment of such standards is a critical importance to our island’s economy,” St Jean stated.
According to the minister, one of the many benefits of the project is the provision of basic educational supplies to primary and secondary schools on the island.
He said that tools and equipment for teaching technical and vocational subjects in high schools will also be supplied.
He added that 60 teachers will receive scholarships for technical and vocational teacher training under the project.
“The project involves the development of the human resource capacity of the education system by providing scholarships to some 60 teachers. These scholarships will provide degree level teacher education and specialist training in technical, vocational skills as well as in support services such as counseling and special education.”
St. Jean also mentioned that under the project, one individual will be trained as a clinical psychologist to assist in the identification and treatment of students with learning or behavioral problems.
He said that a number of other short-term workshops and courses will be offered to primary and secondary school teachers. These sessions will include training in the use of instructional techniques that will assist teachers in dealing with students with different levels of attainment, the minister said.
St. Jean expressed gratitude towards the CDB for granting the loan and urged teachers, parents and students to maximize the use of the investment.
- Government officials and invited guests to the function. *Sean Douglas/Government Press Secretary photo
Meanwhile, Acting Prime Minister Rayburn Blackmoore, who addressed the ceremony, assured that government was committed to universal secondary education.
Senior Education Officer Nicholas Goldberg who gave an overview of the project, cited that the project seeks to address some of the salient gaps within the education system. He urged Dominicans to embrace the project.
Moreover, representative of the CDB Diedree Clarendon expressed her company’s delight and interest in developing the Caribbean’s human resource. She believes that communication is the key to the success of the project.
I agree we need all those categories except hairdressers. We have enough of that.
@Anonymous:
make your own
It i a wondeful idea in educating the people of D/a in all aspects of daily life,however where are the jobs when they complete their studies.Ok education is up to par now workon industry, manufacturing plants and all types of jojobs. The scale must be balanced. The people need jobs otherwise money laundering, drugs and crime is a must.CREATE JOBS and the social problems will be lessened.