Cabo Verde's education system has been in place since the country's colonial era and has played a crucial role in the country's development. However, according to analyst Rui Pereira, this system is now exhausted and in need of an overhaul. Pereira argues that while the education system has helped to emancipate individuals, it has not led to the transformation of the nation.
The country's education system has historically been focused on providing individuals with a means of escaping poverty and achieving social mobility. However, Pereira believes that this approach is no longer sufficient, and that the system needs to be reformed to focus on creating citizens who are capable of investigating, inventing, and competing in the global economy. He notes that the current system prioritizes certification over competence and that this has led to a mismatch between the skills of graduates and the needs of the economy.
Pereira's comments were inspired by recent conversations with Education Minister Dr. Arnaldo Brito and Dr. Miguel Cruz Sousa. He argues that the country's education system needs to be rethought to prioritize the development of skills such as science, critical thinking, and technology. He also believes that the system needs to be more focused on solving real-world problems, such as the lack of access to clean water and energy, and the need for climate adaptation.
The analyst notes that the current education system is not producing citizens who are equipped to solve the country's problems. He argues that the system needs to be reformed to prioritize experiential learning, with students working on real-world projects and collaborating with businesses and communities. Pereira believes that this approach will help to create a more entrepreneurial and innovative culture in Cabo Verde.
However, Pereira also notes that reforming the education system will require more than just changes to the curriculum. He argues that the government needs to create a new contract between the state, schools, families, businesses, and the diaspora. This contract should prioritize the creation of opportunities and the development of capabilities, rather than just providing access to education.
The government, led by Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho, has an opportunity to make significant changes to the education system. However, Pereira notes that this will require courage and a willingness to challenge the status quo. He argues that the government needs to prioritize the development of a more capable and autonomous education system, rather than just making superficial changes.
Ultimately, Pereira believes that Cabo Verde needs a second revolution in education, one that will help to create a more economically autonomous, socially just, and intellectually ambitious society. He argues that this will require a fundamental transformation of the education system, one that prioritizes the development of skills, competencies, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Key points
- The current education system in Cabo Verde is no longer sufficient for the country's future and needs to be overhauled.
- The system needs to prioritize the development of skills such as science, critical thinking, and technology.
- Reforming the education system will require a new contract between the state, schools, families, businesses, and the diaspora.
