Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture delegation attended the Education World Forum 2025, held in London from May 18 to May 21. This globally respected summit brought together Ministers of Education, policymakers, and education thought leaders from over 100 countries to share ideas and shape the future of global education under the theme: From Stability to Growth – Building Stronger, Bolder, Better Education Together.
The Turks and Caicos Islands’ delegation was led by Mr. James Astwood, Permanent Secretary, and included Mr. Mark Garland, Director of Education, and Dr. Keran Williams, Education Officer responsible for teacher development and training. Their participation underscored the Ministry’s strong commitment to global collaboration and its ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient education system for the TCI.
This year’s forum explored a wide range of critical issues central to building education systems that are not only robust and equitable but also agile in responding to 21st-century challenges. Key topics included:
- Ensuring stability in education systems to support confident learning and adaptability
- Addressing disruptions from natural disasters, epidemics, and conflict
- Importance of teacher development and training in improving the academic and social outcomes of student performance
- Improving educational equity and quality for all learners
- Harnessing technology to enhance education while closing the digital divide
- Fostering innovation and forward-thinking practices in teaching and learning
- Exploring the promise and challenges of artificial intelligence in classrooms
- Empowering girls and ensuring gender equity in education
- Strengthening vocational training and skills development for economic growth
- Defining the role of education in personal, community, and national development
Discussions were anchored in five overarching themes: Stability, Equity, Quality, Innovation, and Growth, and featured plenary sessions, thematic workshops, and high-level networking opportunities. These engagements provided valuable insights into global best practices and emerging education policy and implementation trends.
Speaking about the forum, Director of Education, Mr. Mark Garland, stated:
“The Education World Forum was an extraordinary opportunity to learn from global leaders who are facing challenges similar to ours in the Turks and Caicos Islands. We engaged in meaningful dialogue around real-world solutions that can strengthen our education system and better prepare our students for an evolving world. It reaffirmed the importance of investing in teacher training, digital learning infrastructure, and inclusive education policies. We leave inspired and more determined to deliver quality education for every learner in our islands.”
Permanent Secretary, James Astwood, also praised the experience, describing it as “a timely and enlightening engagement that reinforces our commitment to building a robust, future-ready education system in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The knowledge and partnerships gained here will serve as a catalyst for continued reform and innovation.”
“Together, our voices underline a shared commitment to rebuilding and strengthening education systems for a more equitable and sustainable global future. I look forward to hearing from my team upon their return, to explore how we can deepen international collaboration to drive the change we seek,” commented the Minister who could not be in attendance this year due to the passing of the 2025-2026 Budget.
The Ministry of Education remains dedicated to leveraging the insights and international connections formed at the Education World Forum to enhance educational outcomes, foster resilience, and promote sustainable development across the education sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
