The Minister stated, “Education impacts the economy the most as it produces a product for the labour force. Education must tie in with the economy, hence, the introduction of Financial Services and Tourism Studies and the focus on Technical Education.”

The Minister stated that as the Ministry of Education and Culture continues to produce a product for the labour force they may have to move to license the teachers.  He assured the educators that requisite training opportunities will be provided so that they can be successful in this regard.

Honourable Walwyn added that the direction for education must also include the learning of soft skills as they are important and necessary for employment and personal growth.

During his speech, the Minister addressed youth unemployment in the Territory and stated that part of the unemployment issue stems from minds not being conditioned to do certain jobs.  He compared the unemployment to the growing number of work permits issued which indicates that there are available jobs.

“There are a plethora of jobs available in certain trades that persons look down at because their minds are not conditioned to do certain jobs.  Some individuals believe that you must dress in a shirt and tie to be successful, which is not the case.  We must appreciate the contribution made by all of us in the Territory including those persons employed in the technical and vocational field.”

 The Minister continued, “There is a lot of work that we intend to do this year so we ask for all of your support,” he said, adding “You must know that you have the full support of the Government of the Virgin Islands.  We have demonstrated that in a number of ways in the past and we will continue to do that in 2013.”

Other areas addressed at the Department of Education’s Principals Meeting for the Lent School Term include the Principal and Teacher of the Year Awards, school maintenance, teacher-training in the CXC Caribbean Secondary Education Certification, Education Week, the General Knowledge Quiz and the school debates.

The Ministry of Education and Culture continues to nurture and support the professional development of the Territory’s teachers as they strive to “Create a Culture of Excellence”.