-pledges decisive action
Guyana has assumed the Chairmanship of the Caribbean Community’s Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) on Education, with Minister of Education Sonia Parag pledging strong leadership and decisive action to advance the region’s education agenda.
Minister Parag formally assumed the chairmanship on Wednesday at the opening of the 52nd COHSOD Meeting on Education at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in Liliendaal, which is being held under the theme, “Educating for Life, Purpose and Caribbean Progress.”
Accepting the responsibility, Minister Parag committed to building on the regional body’s work while strengthening cooperation among member states to ensure education systems remain relevant to the changing needs of Caribbean societies.
“As I take up the chairwomanship of this very important body, I wish to commit to each of you my unwavering support, my steadfast commitment, and my intention to work hard and build upon the legacy of this body,” Minister Parag said.
She said the region must move beyond viewing education solely as the acquisition of knowledge or preparation for examinations, stressing the importance of developing adaptable, confident and well-rounded citizens.
Key areas before the meeting include the proposed regional micro-credentialing sub-framework, an apprenticeship framework, mathematics interventions, teacher support and stronger parent engagement.
Minister Parag said these priorities are interconnected and must ultimately result in practical improvements for citizens.
“Our task as ministers is not merely to endorse good ideas; our job is to deliver results. Our citizens expect our regional decisions to translate into tangible, visible improvements in their local classrooms, training centres, and communities,” she said.
Meanwhile, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett welcomed Guyana’s leadership, noting that the region’s rapidly changing global environment demands education systems that equip learners with the competencies needed to thrive and contribute to national and regional development.
Dr Barnett said particular attention must be given to technical, vocational and digital skills as Caribbean countries prepare for the future of work.
“Education is far more than the acquisition of knowledge. A good education also prepares persons to lead meaningful lives, contribute to their communities, and shape the future for generations to come,” Dr Barnett explained.
She highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education and training in strengthening regional resilience and competitiveness, while pointing to the Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ) and other regional mechanisms that promote common standards and facilitate the movement of skilled workers.
With Minister Parag at the helm of COHSOD Education for the next period, the two-day deliberations are expected to advance regional strategies aimed at strengthening foundational learning, expanding skills development, supporting teachers and creating more flexible pathways into education, training and employment.