Reassuring results were reported in the Foundation-Based Education (FBE) exit exams, leading Education Minister Jeroen Wuite to suggest the general outcome was not adversely affected by the devastating passage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. It took much effort from many, including teachers, pupils and parents, to make that possible, for which they indeed ought to be commended.
The 509 candidates in total had an average grade of 61 per cent. No comparative figures were provided, but a quick search of the archive on www.thedailylherald.sx revealed that the 2015 score was 55, and increased to 58 in 2016.
Unfortunately, there was no story to be found on the 20l7 overall figures except for then-Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs saying the performance in mathematics had “remained about the same,” while a small improvement “though not sufficient” had been registered for Dutch and slight performance declines in general knowledge and English.
This year those four subjects produced marks of respectively 59, 50, 58 and 76 per cent. Although the overall 2018 result improved, the examinees did better in math last year.
It regards the final test for passage from the main primary to secondary education schools in St. Maarten that helps determine in which type of programme the graduates are to be enrolled. The importance of this choice cannot be overstated and should be based first and foremost on the best long-term interest of the individual rather than the convenience of others.
However, while these results are no doubt encouraging under the circumstances, one should remember that the world is changing fast and requires more than just maintaining a certain standard or way of going about things. To continue doing well and even excel, keeping up with modern learning techniques is key especially in this digital age.
Some of the recovery funds made available by the Netherlands should go towards education, but not only in terms of repairing school buildings, etc. The goal must be to truly invest in quality education that can produce citizens capable of taking this country to the next level.
