The Education and Youth Ministry has been working steadily to make improvements in the system to ensure equity, better processes, and greater access to provide high-quality education for all students.
Fayval Williams, Portfolio Minister, stated that significant progress has been made to improve virtual teaching environments, which she noted is one of the key areas for strengthening.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the JTC Mentoring & Induction of Beginning Teachers for 2022, Mrs Williams said that these changes reflect the maturing of our education system.
When you return to education, the classroom you will see is one where students and teachers have more learning tools than ever before. The digital divide, although still not completely closed, has been greatly reduced, she stated.
She stated that the COVID-19 epidemic has forced the restructuring in the education system, with most teaching and learning activities moving to the internet.
Inductees, I assure you that Jamaica’s education system is adaptable to changing times. It has been strengthened to absorb shocks, and has been given resources to be more agile, targeted, and responsive to individual learning requirements.
Mrs Williams praised the approximately 1,000 new beginning teachers who have entered the profession at a crucial and consequential time.
She said that we at the Ministry are thrilled to welcome you into the profession and have high expectations of your abilities.
Allison Solomon, Senior Director at JTC, stated that the Council had modified its programmes to prepare new educators in order to adapt to the changing teaching landscape.
This cohort shows how the system has changed in teacher preparation, with an increased reliance on technology and shifts in operating norms, health protocols, and other pandemic related changes. Ms Solomon stated, “By supporting teachers, students, their learning, and the sustenance a robust education system,”
The rigorous program of study was provided by 13 teachers-training institutions and departments across the island. The new teachers also received 20 hours of intensive job readiness training from the JTC.
The programme offers a full year’s professional support to new teachers, helping them to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful as teachers in the education system.
The theme of Transforming Education and the Digital Space was used for the ceremony.
-JIS News-
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