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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Honourable Zane Lightbourne, Minister of State for Education, Technical and Vocational Training, has called on educators to become good listeners, improve their problem-solving skills and avoid temptations that lead to the decline of the teaching profession.
“You have chosen a noble profession, so whether it is temporary or long-term, just know that from day one you will be impacting people’s lives and working for the future of this country we call home,” he said.
Minister Lebtourn spoke at the University of the Bahamas School of Education (Spring 2022) Faculty Appointments Ceremony on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at the Atlantis Conference Centre.
Of the 111 education graduates, Minister Lighbtourne noted that 15 of them (more than 13%) were male.
“I heard that one of you chose to study elementary education and two of you chose to study family and consumer sciences.
“Sir, like you, I have taught in our public education system for over a decade. Believe me, your presence is vital as we grapple with the complexities of this new normal.
“Our male students benefit greatly when they are surrounded by positive male role models that they can observe and emulate. You have to become like them, and I am confident that you are up to the task.”
Thirteen (11%) educators who studied mathematics also received recognition.
Minister Lightbourne said he was particularly pleased with the number of mathematics educators, which would increase student interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, which the Ministry of Education is working hard to actively promote and encourage student participation.
Educators entering the profession for the first time are also being looked at, as are some former teachers who continue to teach full-time.
“I also realise that many of you are mature teachers who have juggled the complex tasks of being full-time parents and caring for children alongside your studies. This is commendable.
“These laudable achievements demonstrate your determination and perseverance. Your students can learn from these qualities, which are also accompanied by emotions of love and care that go beyond your own children, many of whom you are meeting for the first time. They will become your children, and you will be their guide.
“Your achievements today reflect determination and perseverance. These are qualities that will serve you well as educators serving more than 40,000 students across the country,” said Secretary Lightburn.
Dr. Rodney Smith, president and CEO of the University at Buffalo, recalled that while the past two years have been a difficult time for educators due to the pandemic, they have also ushered in a period of rich learning and opportunity to see the world of education through new lenses.
“Remember, no matter how advanced our teaching and learning outcomes become, the teacher, the individuals in the classroom space, whether physical, virtual or hybrid, are the ones who truly have the power to inspire students to use whatever innovations we implement or experiment with to make learning more fun and engaging. You are still the best students and the greatest innovation for students.”
He encouraged everyone to constantly evaluate and assess themselves to ensure continuous learning in this process of change and adjustment.
“Remember the lessons of COVID-19. Nothing is set in stone and certain. Education is evolving and you must evolve too.
The pandemic has also reminded us to tap into our humanity, kindness and compassion as it has exposed inequalities of opportunity and access, and the difficulties many students face at home, away from their learning spaces.”
Dr. Smith encourages educators to always put kindness first. “This may seem like a small and simple lesson, but it can make a huge difference in the lives of students. If you can do these things, I believe you will have a positive impact on your learning space and the lives of every student you have the privilege to teach.”
The event was attended by UB administration, faculty, staff and students. Also in attendance were family members, well-wishers, and representatives from the Department of Education and the Department of Technical and Vocational Training. Participants included Associate Professor Jennifer Isaacs- Dotson, Dean of the School of Social and Educational Studies Dr. Thalia Micklewhite, and graduate candidate Jovonia Kemp-Moss. The theme of the event was “We Survived, Now We Thrive: Success in Adversity.”
Bell ringers and graduates from the TG Glover School for Professional Development and Research provided entertainment.
The College of Education presented a memento to Dr. Raquel Barr-Edgecombe, chair of the school’s education department, and Dr. Natasha Jones-Swann, director of the secondary school department, both of whom graduated from USF with doctoral degrees in education.
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