Letter of the Day | Retrograde step for the Caribbean economy
Published:Thursday | May 30, 2024 | 12:07 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
The discontinuation of certification of mechanical engineering at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, along with green engineering, electrical and electronic engineering and technology, and agricultural science – double award at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency (CAPE) level due to low enrolment, is a significant decision that has raised several concerns.
It is particularly troubling given that Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) subjects are critical for developing skills that directly contribute to various sectors of the economy, such as technology, engineering, and skilled trades. These skills are essential for the growth and diversification of the Caribbean economy, which often relies heavily on tourism and agriculture. By eliminating these subjects, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) potentially undermines the development of a workforce capable of supporting and expanding these vital industries.
Over the years, substantial efforts have been made by TVET practitioners and the Ministry of Education to elevate the status of TVET subjects, ensuring they are viewed on par with academic subjects. This includes initiatives to integrate TVET into mainstream education in over 170 high schools in Jamaica, increasing its appeal to students, and recognising its importance in providing practical skills that are immediately applicable in the job market.
The abrupt discontinuation of these subjects undermines these efforts, sending a message that TVET is less valued, which could deter students from pursuing these pathways and limit their career opportunities.
A question for CXC arises: Was there adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including educators, industry leaders, and students? Consultations might have highlighted the necessity of these subjects for certain industries and the need for improvements in how they are taught and assessed, rather than their elimination.
ALTERNATIVE STEPS
I suggest some alternative steps for CXC to consider:
1. CXC could have launched initiatives to raise awareness and improve the perception of TVET subjects, highlighting their importance and relevance in today’s job market.
2. Encouraging universities and colleges to recognise TVET subjects as part of their matriculation requirements would help integrate these subjects into the broader education system, enhancing their credibility and appeal.
3. CXC could work with ministries of Education in the region to secure more funding for TVET programmes, ensuring that schools have the necessary resources to deliver high-quality vocational education.
4. Before discontinuing subjects, CXC should explore internal cost-cutting measures and creative ways to deliver TVET exams more cost effectively. This might include digital exams, partnerships with industries, or using a similar approach as that of the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) assessments.
5. Both CXC and the Ministry of Education need to make TVET more appealing to Gen Z by aligning the educational experience with their technological interests and values. Incorporating cutting-edge technologies like robotics, 3D printing, Virtual Reality (VR) labs, and drones can significantly enhance engagement. Additionally, highlighting real-world applications, promoting clear career pathways, leveraging digital media, and modernising the learning environment can help transform the perception of TVET and attract more students to these vital fields.
6. Integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into TVET curricula to make programmes more relevant and engaging. AI can be used to personalise learning experiences, offer advanced simulations, and automate administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus on hands-on teaching. Furthermore, AI-driven tools can help identify skills gaps and adapt training programmes to meet current and future market demands.
The Ministry of Education also has a crucial role to play by providing the funding support for laboratories, teacher education, etc.
DENWORTH FINNIKIN
TVET expert &
University Lecturer