The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) is supporting the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries (MOESC) in Antigua and Barbuda in developing a national open and distance learning (ODL) policy and a professional development governance framework for teachers. This initiative aims to enhance teacher training beyond the initial preparation provided by the Department of Teacher Education at Antigua State College.

Towards these goals, the Ministry recently hosted a four-day national workshop in St. John’s, with over 40 stakeholders in attendance. Participants included education and curriculum support officers, master and senior teachers, teacher educators, and representatives from the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers. The principals of Barbuda’s primary and secondary schools were also in attendance, ensuring representation from all parts of the twin-island state.

The workshop was officially opened by the Director of Education, Mr Clare Browne, who emphasised the importance of robust governance structures to guide professional development activities. In his remarks, Mr Browne stated, “This process aligns with our national education sector plan, addressing strategic imperatives to strengthen the regulatory framework that guides educational activities. The outcomes of this workshop will play an important role in achieving our education goals.”

Centred on the theme of teachers as the nation’s “future makers,” discussions highlighted the need to improve the standards of the teaching profession. Participants examined the state of teacher training and professional development, with most suggesting that student performance remains the ultimate measure of educational success. They proposed innovative strategies to professionalise teaching while reflecting on ways to integrate open educational resources and online learning into an inclusive ODL framework.

COL’s Education Specialist for Teacher Education, Dr Betty Ogange, remarked, “Teachers are integral to the implementation of education reforms. Providing them with structured opportunities for continuous professional development, supported by ODL, ensures they remain equipped to adopt new pedagogical standards and meet their learners’ diverse needs.”