The General Secretariat of the Organization 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 initiative was launched this week during the first OAS consultation mission to the country, marking the beginning of the project.
The Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Daryll Matthew, highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to promoting learning environments in which students develop the knowledge, skills, and values needed to exercise active and informed citizenship.
During the September 15–16 visit, led by OAS Education Specialist Cecilia Martins, curriculum development experts, policymakers, education professionals, students, and other key stakeholders participated in consultations, dialogues, and collaborative activities.
The technical assistance is coordinated by the Department of Human Development, Education and Employment (DHDEE) of the OAS Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (SEDI) and is part of the hemispheric program “Strengthening Democratic Principles through Education and Policy Dialogue (DEMEP).” The program brings together 29 member states and promotes the principles established in Article 16 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, which states that “education is key to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting the development of human potential, and alleviating poverty and fostering greater understanding among our peoples.”
As part of the process, funded by the United States, the OAS will support the review of national policies, curricula, and initiatives, as well as the identification of priorities for future training and tool development. The experiences and knowledge gained will contribute to the exchange of educational best practices across the region through the Inter-American Committee on Education and the follow-up mechanisms of the Inter-American Democratic Charter.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: OAS to Support Antigua and Barbuda in Strengthening Democratic Participation in School Settings.