Last Updated on September 5, 2022, 9:09 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Minister of Education Dr Geoffrey Hanley signalled the opening of the 2022-2023 academic year during his national address on September 4, 2022. Minister Hanley used this opportunity to highlight several issues of importance, such as important dates, updated Covid-19 guidelines, the annual back-to-school key message, personnel changes and the goals of the ministry.
He addressed the students of the country’s public primary and secondary schools; He said, “your school will start on September 7, 2022, Wednesday. I expect you to come early and ready to work. We (The school authorities, teachers etc) look forward to welcoming our new entrants to preschool, primary and high school warmly and encourage you to bloom where you are planted.”
The Minister of Education added, “Your teachers are exceptional educators who give their very best to ensure you are successful.”
He addressed the parents of the school-going pupil, stating that the ministry of education values your input and encourages you to become an active member of your school’s Parent Teacher Association.
He added that the Ministry of Education chooses a Key Message every year to guide and inspire our students. This year is no different. Our Key Message for the academic year 2022-23 is ‘Excellence is NOT a skill, it is an attitude by Ralph Marston.”
He stated that we must Let us encourage our children to live by these words.”
He indicated that everyone seeking access to our educational institutions MUST sanitize their hands upon entry.
He also added that wearing a mask is now OPTIONAL but strongly encouraged, especially in enclosed spaces.
Further, To avoid the spread of Covid-19, students and teachers who are experiencing flu-like symptoms must seek help from a medical professional before their return to campus.
The Minister of Education also thanked teachers for never neglecting their duties throughout the pandemic.
He also announced several new appointments within the Ministry of Education. Lisa-Romayne Archibald-Pistana has replaced William Vincent Hodge as the new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education.
He thanked William Vincent Hodge for his guidance, hard work and direction as the former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education for the last six years.
Further, he announced the new permanent secretary in the Ministry of Education, Lisa-Romayne Archibald-Pistana. He explained that she has worked in education for over 19 years.
He also announced a number of changes at the school level,
- Jamillah Bristol was appointed the new Head Teacher of Beach Allen Primary School.
- Mr Javan Cannonier has assumed the post of Deputy Head Teacher at the Cayon Primary School.
- Ms Ulukia Bryan has accepted the position of Deputy Head Teacher at the Dieppe Bay Primary School,” said Minister Dr Hanley.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
