The BVI Teachers Union hosted its counterparts from around the region during the Caribbean Union of Teachers’ executive meeting on Tuesday and yesterday at Maria’s by the Sea.

 

Among other topics, attendees discussed how to give teachers a greater voice in the education systems in which they operate.

“Teachers want to influence the decision-making processes in government,” said Cecil Hodge, president of the BVI Teachers Union, when reached yesterday after the meeting.

That includes wanting to influence syllabuses, curriculums, assessments and disciplinary issues, Mr. Hodge noted.

He also stressed that his union wants to work amicably with administrations, parents, government and other community members, and that cohesion and input from everyone always results in the best strategic development plan.

Premier Dr. Orlando Smith and Education and Culture Minister Myron Walwyn both spoke at the event.

Dr. Smith emphasised that all students in the region deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential, according to Government Information Services.

“The responsibility is therefore in our hands to build capacity, ensure high competency skills and sustainability among those living, working and residing in the Caribbean,” Dr. Smith said. “We owe it to the Caribbean youth to facilitate the very best education system, in order for them to remain competitive and relevant in the wider market.”

The meeting precedes the CUT Biennial Track and Field Championships, which the territory will host tomorrow and Saturday at the A. O. Shirley Recreation Grounds. The event is open to ages 8-15.

A total of 13 countries and territories will participate in the games, Mr. Hodge said, adding that each country can bring up to 40 athletes and 10 chaperones.

The first CUT championship was held in Barbados in 1986, according to the CUT website. Tortola previously hosted the games in 2008.

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