Education

Education Ministry Committed To Safety & Well-Being In Schools

The Ellerslie School is one of the beneficiaries of the Model Safe School Programme (MSSP).

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, said the MSSP is a clear indication of the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training’s (METVT) commitment to The Ellerslie School.

She made these remarks at the presentation of lighting and electrical supplies, which took place in the auditorium of the school, on Tuesday.

“This programme exemplifies our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated.

The MSSP is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors within a school environment, and measures emergency preparedness, crisis response plans, security protocols, and initiatives to promote a positive school climate.

The MSSP Costed Action Plan Barbados is a collaboration between the METVT and the Coordinating Unit of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and is funded by the Norway Project

The Chief Education Officer told the students and staff that they were specially chosen and added that the Ministry recognised the importance of creating a safe and conducive learning environment, which identified the need for enhancing the lighting infrastructure at the school.

“Through collaboration with CDEMA, we successfully procured essential electrical and lighting fixtures. These fixtures include LED lights, weatherproof fixtures, and red light fixtures, which will be installed across classrooms, bathrooms, staff rooms, corridors, and the stairwells of the Junior Block,” she said.

Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated that the benefits of the initiative extend beyond lighting and will also significantly reduce electricity costs and decrease the carbon footprint, while aligning with environmental stewardship goals.

“The enhanced lighting will also create a more comfortable environment for you, and a safer environment while learning and working, contributing to your overall well-being and productivity for everyone at this school.

“This initiative is not just for the present, but it’s an investment in the future. It will benefit you as current students, but it will also benefit those who join the school community in years to come,” she emphasized. (PR)

CAPTION: Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw (centre) receives the lighting and electrical equipment from Deputy Executive Director of CDEMA, Kester Craig, while Principal of The Ellerslie School Andrea Baptiste, looks on

Education

Three Schools Honoured For Championing Health Initiatives

Three schools have been recognised for their efforts in promoting healthy lifestyles through the implementation of the Barbados School Nutrition Policy (BSNP).

George Lamming Primary, St. Giles Primary, and The Rock Christian School were honoured by the BSNP Implementation Committee during a special ceremony on Wednesday at the George Lamming Primary School, in Welches, St. Michael.

The overall winner, George Lamming Primary, and the two other schools, each received $4,000 in vouchers to support their health-focused initiatives.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, commended the schools for their leadership, highlighting the significance of turning policy into action.

“This is one of those moments where we must reward, appreciate, and acknowledge progress…. We are moving in the right direction. It’s one thing for policymakers to develop ideas on paper, but it’s in moments like these that we see policy come alive and truly transform lives…. You’re proving that good health begins with each of us,” Mr. Ishmael said.

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, also praised the students and school communities for their dedication.

“Winning isn’t just about trophies or prizes, it’s about the teamwork, the creativity, and the commitment you’ve shown in reshaping your school environment. Your participation sets an example that will inspire not just your classmates, but your families and communities to live healthier lives. This is just the beginning of your journey – keep making smart, healthy choices,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated.

The event was also attended by PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, other officials and stakeholders involved in the policy’s rollout, principals, teachers, and students.

The BSNP Committee applauded the schools for fostering healthier environments, underscoring the importance of early intervention in addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases. The initiative forms part of a national effort to promote wellness and improve long-term health outcomes for Barbadian youth. (PR/GIS)

Caption: Minister of State in Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael; Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw; PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Reigo, as well as officials and stakeholders involved in the School Nutrition Policy, pose with students and principals of the George Lamming Primary; St. Giles Primary; and The Rock Christian School, at the ceremony

Education

Immigration Webinar For Students Wishing To Study In Canada

Barbadians interested in pursuing studies in Canada are invited to participate in the online Immigration Seminar of the Consulate General of Barbados, in Toronto.

The Consulate, as part of its annual activities to observe National Heroes Day, is hosting a week of activities, and the key event will be the Immigration Seminar tomorrow Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 p.m.

Over the past 12 months, there have been significant changes to the requirements and processes for obtaining an international student visa. As a result, the seminar will focus on the recent changes to the entry requirements for international students coming to Canada to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Prospective students, as well as parents, guardians, guidance counsellors, school teachers and principals, who have a vested interest in obtaining the most up-to-date and accurate information to make the most informed choice from the available study options, are encouraged to participate in the online seminar.

Alana Alleyne, a barrister and solicitor, will cover areas such as the latest changes to international student visas, eligibility criteria for student visas, requirements for postgraduate work permits, and changes to eligibility for spousal work permits. (PR/GIS)

Education

Information Session For Teachers Keen On Working In USA

Primary school teachers interested in working in the United States of America (USA) are invited to an upcoming Information Session, tomorrow Thursday, April 24.

The session will be hosted in the Main Conference Room of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The initiative is being facilitated by the Ministry, in partnership with the Barbados Employment and Career Counselling Service, the Barbados Union of Teachers, and Participate Learning, a USA recruitment firm.

During the event, Participate Learning will share important information on the application and recruitment processes, as well as on working in the USA. (PR/GIS)