The Organisation of American States (OAS) will collaborate with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology of Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen democratic participation, responsible citizenship and youth engagement within the country’s education system.
The OAS said the initiative was launched this week during its first consultation mission to Antigua and Barbuda, marking the beginning of the project.
The September 15-16 mission was led by OAS Education Specialist Cecilia Martins and brought together curriculum development experts, policymakers, education professionals, students and other stakeholders.
Minister of Education, Science and Technology Daryll Matthew said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to creating learning environments where students develop the knowledge, skills and values needed for active and informed citizenship.
The technical assistance is being coordinated by the OAS Department of Human Development, Education and Employment (DHDEE), under the Directorate of Education and Culture of the OAS Executive Secretariat for Integral Development, through the Democratic Education and Citizenship Programme (DEMEP).
The OAS said DEMEP brings together 29 member states and promotes implementation of Article 16 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, which recognises education as an important means of strengthening democratic institutions, developing human potential and alleviating poverty.
The initiative, funded by the United States, will support a review of existing policies, curricula and initiatives and help identify priorities for future training and tool development.
The OAS said the experience will also contribute to the exchange of best practices through the Inter-American Committee on Education and related follow-up mechanisms. (CMC)
