Cabo Verde's Education Minister, Arnaldo Brito, has emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in the country's education system, prioritizing the development of competencies and holistic student growth over mere instruction. Speaking in the city of Praia, Brito highlighted the importance of reorienting the education system to focus on education rather than just instruction. This call for change comes ahead of the National Education Conference, scheduled for November 5-6.
The Minister believes that the current education system prioritizes content over education, leading to a focus on memorization and reproduction of information rather than meaningful learning. He argues that this approach does not adequately prepare students for life's challenges. Brito's vision for the education system is one that emphasizes learning, competency development, and individual growth. This approach would enable students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the country's well-being.
Arnaldo Brito has also expressed that Cabo Verde's priority should be improving the quality of education rather than participating in international evaluations like the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). While acknowledging the importance of PISA, Brito believes that the country's education system requires urgent attention and improvement. He emphasizes that the focus should be on providing better educational responses to the country's needs and challenges.
The Minister defines the quality of education not just by the number of students progressing to the next grade but by what they learn and how well they are prepared for life's challenges. He stresses that it is essential to move beyond mere academic achievement and focus on equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to take responsibility for themselves and contribute to society.
Brito advocates for a stronger connection between schools and the real world, enabling students to acquire practical competencies. He believes that this approach would better prepare students for the workforce and equip them with the skills necessary to succeed. The National Education Conference aims to bring together national and international experts to discuss the education system and propose solutions for its transformation.
The conference, which will take place on November 5-6, seeks to gather diverse stakeholders in the education sector to debate and discuss the current state of education in Cabo Verde. By engaging with experts and stakeholders, the conference aims to identify key areas for improvement and develop strategies for implementing meaningful change.
Ultimately, Minister Brito's vision for Cabo Verde's education system is one that prioritizes holistic student growth, practical skill development, and a strong connection to the real world. By shifting the focus from instruction to education, he hopes to empower students to become active contributors to the country's well-being and development.
Key points
- Cabo Verde's Education Minister Arnaldo Brito calls for a shift in focus from instruction to education, emphasizing competency development and holistic student growth.
- The Minister prioritizes improving the quality of education over participating in international evaluations like PISA.
- The National Education Conference aims to bring together experts to discuss the education system and propose solutions for its transformation.
