GEORGETOWN, Guyana:  As part of its commitment to investing in the Caribbean’s human development, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB/ the Bank) presented a regional Improving Mathematic Proficiency across Caribbean Countries (IMPACT) Programme at the 52nd Meeting of the CARICOM Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) - Education. The proposed initiative places an emphasis on improving mathematics outcomes and preparing learners for future opportunities.

The recent meeting, held in Georgetown, Guyana, brought together education ministers, senior government officials, regional institutions and development partners under the theme, “Educating for Life, Purpose, and Caribbean Progress”. Discussions centred on advancing a shared regional education agenda and ensuring that Caribbean learners are prepared to thrive in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world. 

Improving mathematics outcomes across the Region was a key priority highlighted by CDB at the meeting. In support of this call to action, Dr. Nicola Johnson, CDB Operations Officer (Education), Social Sector Division and Dr. Joan Ernandez-Spencer, Joint Board of Teacher Education of the University of the West Indies, presented the IMPACT Programme for Primary and Secondary Schools. They underscored the initiative's comprehensive, coordinated, system-wide approach to strengthening mathematics teaching and learning through curriculum delivery, teacher development, assessment, and student support.

“If we want better outcomes for students, we must strengthen the entire system that supports mathematics teaching and learning. This programme takes a comprehensive approach by investing in teacher professional development, instructional leadership, AI-powered learning support, coaching, parental engagement, action research, and policy reform to improve mathematics achievement across all primary and secondary schools,” said Dr. Nicola Johnson, who spoke at the COHSOD meeting.

The IMPACT Programme aims to improve student achievement and equip learners with the confidence and competencies needed to succeed in further education, employment, and entrepreneurship, while contributing to a more competitive, resilient, and prosperous Region.

Developed in collaboration with the Joint Boards of Teacher Education of The University of the West Indies (Mona and Cave Hill), the initiative reflects CDB’s commitment to advancing quality education and building a skilled, future-ready Caribbean.

Delivering opening remarks at the meeting, the Honourable Sonia Parag, Guyana’s Minister of Education and Chair of COHSOD - Education, underscored the broader purpose of education in shaping the Region’s future.

"We must be able to create wholesome, well-rounded Caribbean citizens," said Minister Parag. 

Minister Parag also welcomed the regional mathematics initiative, noting the positive impact of Guyana’s own mathematics intervention programme and emphasising the importance of strong foundational skills to success in science, technology, technical training, financial literacy and the modern workplace. 

As the Caribbean continues its journey towards sustainable, resilient and inclusive development, CDB remains committed to partnering with governments, educators and regional institutions to solve longstanding issues in education in the Caribbean to ensure every learner has the opportunity to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Caribbean progress.

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Photo caption: Education Ministers and experts from across the Caribbean attend the 52nd Meeting of the CARICOM Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) - Education.
Photo credit: Ministry of Education, Guyana