Basseterre, St. Kitts, Tuesday, June 17, 2025: At an opening ceremony for aspiring teachers on Monday, June 16, Senior Education Officer, Mrs. Janelle Williams-Jacobs stated that the two-week program follows best practices in global teacher preparation.
Mrs. Jacobs, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, stated
“As part of the process, participants will be required to sit a literacy and numeracy exam. Throughout the programme, participants are going to be introduced to a variety of instructional, technological, professional, and well-based skills and competencies. These are carefully selected to help you transition confidently into the teaching profession.”
Chief Education Officer, Mr. Francil Morris, emphasized the importance of the teaching profession to participants.
“Teaching is not simply a steppingstone into a job. It is the answer to a higher call. A call to awaken minds, spark imagination, and help shape the future beyond academic success.”
Cabinet Secretary and Motivational Speaker, Dr. Marcus Natta, encouraged participants to connect with their students when given the opportunity.
“One of the things I want you to do is to remember that you were a student too and remember the things that you liked and that you did not like. It is not always about teaching the curriculum, yes, you have to teach the curriculum because it is important but try to do other things that make you seem human and show that you care about the students.”
Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Education, urged the teaching hopefuls to fully embrace the training experience.
“I encourage you to listen attentively, ask questions boldly, participate actively, and reflect deeply. Treat every session as an opportunity to grow. Your facilitators are not just lecturers; they are experienced educators and professionals who have walked the road ahead of you. Learn from them, lean on them, and engage with the material and your peers fully.”
The ceremony, held under the theme, Transforming Education Through Self-Renewal, Holistic Partnerships and Digital Solutions, marked the beginning of a comprehensive training programme designed to prepare aspiring educators for successful entry into the teaching profession.
