Deputy Chief Education Officer (Planning and Development), Dr. Roderick Rudder. (FP)

Students and members of the public got to see firsthand the contribution teachers make to the development of Barbados’ human capital, during the first day of the Ministry of Education’s Expo at its Constitution Road, St. Michael headquarters.

Visitors to the Expo were taken on an educational journey as the Ministry showcased its initiatives in education, ranging from early childhood education to teacher training and preparation.

It is part of Education Month activities, which are being held under the theme: Building Excellence in Education through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics).

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Planning and Development), Dr. Roderick Rudder, said that with Government’s emphasis on STEAM, the Ministry decided to pursue a theme which reflected such.  He added that the Ministry, in partnership with its stakeholders, would be pursuing various activities to advance STEAM in education.

“Many of you would be well aware of the technological advances that have been made.  Just a few years ago, a cellphone could not allow you to do the kind of research or gather the kind of information that is currently available at your fingertips. A lot of emphasis has been placed globally on the whole concept of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics as driving factors in the development of innovative ideas, and in the transition of many of the economies across the globe,” he stated.

Some of the booths on display included those by the National Library Service, which showcased material associated with literacy and reading, and The Ann Hill School and All Saints Primary School Special Needs Unit, which showed some of the advancements made in teacher training in this area, as well as learning materials used to assist students.

The Ministry of Innovation, Science and Smart Technology also had on display various areas related to STEAM – how it contributes to the learning environment and how it could be utilized to advance several careers among the nation’s youth.

Additionally, visitors were given information on nutrition and health by the School Meals Department, as well as details on workforce skills from those manning the Skills for the Future Program booth. The Ministry’s Media Resource Department was also a popular booth, as it displayed some of the materials it produces to assist in classroom delivery.

The Expo continues tomorrow, with performances from Peter Ram and Faith Callender around noon.

melissa.rollock@barbados.gov.bb

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