Basseterre: St. Kitts, Thursday, July 03, 2025: The Commonwealth of Learning, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, presented a five-month training session to primary school teachers in St. Kitts and Nevis. The session, Advancing Caribbean Teachers (ACT) in Mathematics, culminated on Wednesday, June 25, with a ceremony of recognition held at the CUNA Conference Room.
Professor Peter Scott, President and CEO, COL, extended congratulatory remarks for the successful cessation of the session and reinforced COL’s commitment of in the progression of professional growth.
“The ACT project, supported by COL and delivered in collaboration with your Ministry, set out to do something bold: to create an innovative, scalable model of professional development using Open and Distance Learning. Together, we have done just that. Your engagement – across virtual classrooms, communities of practice, and collaborative exchanges – has not only deepened your professional competencies, but it has also strengthened a culture of shared learning that spans across borders. We are reminded that in small states, the power of partnership and the promise of technology go hand-in-hand. Through the Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth, COL remains committed to this shared vision, where professional development is not a one-time event, but a journey shaped by reflection, community, and innovation. Your work signals a new chapter. One where students will be met with stronger pedagogical strategies, more inclusive classrooms, and greater belief in their potential.”
Representing the office of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Tricia Esdaille, Sr. Assistant Secretary, relayed congratulatory remarks and reassured the educators of the need to stay updated with the latest developments and information in education.
“The need to upskill even in areas of expertise is essential to being an effective teacher. Teachers, having completed this course of study, I hope you have fully embraced the fact that to master your craft – teaching, you can never stop learning. The pedagogy of teaching is constantly changing and evolving, which means that you too, need to be constant in your pursuit of knowledge and in your pursuit of excellence as a teacher.”
Dr. Schontal Moore, Adviser for the Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC) at the Commonwealth of Learning outlined the benefits of ACT in Mathematics training.
“ACT in Mathematics was not merely a project, but a response—a responsive intervention to the persistent, structural challenges facing Mathematics teaching and learning across small states. It was designed with our shared context in mind: our limited teacher availability, geographic dispersion, and the urgent need to bolster Mathematics achievement through teacher empowerment. It is this kind of context-aware design that makes ACT a truly transformative partnership. As VUSSC Adviser, I am particularly proud that ACT embodies the principles of small state resilience, knowledge-sharing, and the power of digital technology to bridge divides. It demonstrates how Open and Distance Learning, when designed with purpose and empathy, can make professional development more accessible, more engaging, and more impactful. Especially in subjects like Mathematics—foundational to STEM, national development, and individual opportunity,” stated Dr. Moore.
In-Country Project Coordinator, Mrs. Carol Boddie, appealed to the program graduates to apply what was learnt, and share the knowledge garnered with colleagues.
“To you, the graduates of this programme: the responsibility now lies in using what you’ve gained. Do not shelve your newfound expertise. Share it with colleagues. Integrate it into your practice. Let it transform not only your classrooms, but your schools and beyond. Teachers, I urge each of you to remain active in a community of practice—whether continuing the one initiated through this training or cultivating a new one. Collaborative engagement and peer support are essential in advancing excellence in Mathematics education,” she expressed.
Chief Education Officer and Focal Point for COL, Mr. Francil Morris applauded the educators for successfully completing the program.
“I offer my heartfelt congratulations for your dedication, for your perseverance and for your commitment. We do understand that navigating your regular schedule and completing these sessions would have been challenging, but today you have proven what Nelson Mandela has said: “It always seems impossible until it’s done. Special commendation goes to those who achieved proficiency and exemplary levels. Your accomplishments are a testament to your mastery and deep enriched understanding of both the content and the teaching of Mathematics.”
