CARICOM Youth Ambassador from Barbados, Zuwena Perry believes that CARICOM leaders have shown evidence of their commitment to improving the Region’s education system. She expressed this sentiment during the launch of the Human Resource Commission at the Caribbean Development Bank in Barbados on Thursday evening. According to Ms. Perry the launch of the Human Resource Development Commission was proof that the Region’s leaders were actively seeking to improve the education sector within CARICOM.

The CYA noted that the Region must invest in its people, especially its youth to be able to make a more significant mark globally. She opined that it was undoubtedly the answer to successful development and sustainability within the Community.

Speaking to the education system she said it was important that any programmes or courses offered were relevant and current and offered options outside of the typical academic avenues.

“Simply being able to say that we have a high literacy rate and a high number of graduates, means nothing, if the quality of education is substandard” posited Ms. Perry.

She expressed hope that the efforts of the Commission to develop qualified and contributing members of society would be recognized and supported by business entities within the Region. She urged them to unite with the Commission in its mandate to create opportunities and realise competent and capable human resources.

Ms Perry said the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors recognized the importance of the initiative and were prepared to assist wherever possible.

“I wish this endeavour much success as we seek to transform the infrastructure of the Region” Ms Perry said.

The CARICOM HRD Commission is charged with creating a Human Resource Development Strategy for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The Strategy is intended to form the basis for converged action by Member States that will lead to the development of a workforce that is equipped for twenty-first century economic and societal requirements.