Basseterre, St. Kitts, Friday, January 17, 2025: The Commonwealth of Learning (COL), in partnership with the Ministry of Education of St. Kitts and Nevis, hosted the opening ceremony of the “Advancing Caribbean Teachers in Mathematics Workshop” on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
The ceremony marked the commencement of a two-day workshop designed to empower Mathematics educators in the Federation with innovative teaching strategies and tools.
Mr. Francil Morris, Chief Education Officer, provided a brief background on the workshop.
“Having recognized the concerning trend of declining Mathematics performance both locally and regionally among some students, this training has emerged as a critical response. Ultimately, what began as an idea, then collaborative discussions between Dr. Schontal Moore, Advisor for VUSSC, at the Commonwealth of Learning and Carol Walker, Programme Assistant for VUSSC with Permanent Secretary, Lisa Pistana; Education Officer, Carol Boddie; Principal Education Officer, Londa Brown; and myself (Francil Morris, Chief Education Officer), has evolved into this timely opportunity to establish a community of practice for our teachers of Mathematics in St. Kitts and Nevis.”
Mrs. Lisa Romayne-Pistana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, gave brief remarks on behalf of the Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley.
“The Ministry of Education has embarked on a mission to improve the mathematical skills of our students and facilitate the training of our teachers in this field as well. It is important for us to realize that mathematics is used in our everyday lives and therefore should be embraced and our love for it nurtured. Over the next two days, teachers, you will learn to integrate Open Distance Learning (ODL), Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL), and gender-responsive strategies into your teaching methods. This comprehensive training will enable you to make Mathematics more accessible and engaging for all students, regardless of their background or learning environment. Upon completion of this course, this cohort of teachers should feel empowered and even more confident.”
She also expressed gratitude.
“At this juncture, I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the facilitator and consultant Dr. Louise George.”
The “Advancing Caribbean Teachers in Mathematics Workshop” promises to leave a lasting impression on educators and students in the Federation.
