Déméro orders 101 public schools converted into teacher support centers

Education Minister Vijonet Déméro has ordered that 101 public schools be converted step by step into a new type of institution, according to HaitiLibre. A circular issued by the minister gives the new institutions the name "Fundamental Application Schools / Pedagogical Support Centers", shortened to EFA/CAP. The selected schools are spread across the ten departmental Directorates of Education.

HaitiLibre reports that the measure aims to strengthen the training of teaching staff, give fundamental schools pedagogical backing, improve how educators teach in class and raise the quality of learning for pupils.

Which schools are affected

The circular does not name the 101 schools in its main text. They are listed in departmental annexes attached to it. HaitiLibre links to a downloadable list of the institutions concerned.

What each center will include

A Pedagogical Support Center (CAP) is to be attached to every one of these schools. Building, rehabilitating and equipping it will happen progressively. The work must follow the Ministry's architectural and pedagogical standards and depends on resources being available. The circular sets no timetable and gives no cost in the portions reported.

The role of each school in its area

Each EFA/CAP is to provide ongoing training and pedagogical supervision for a local network of about fifty associated fundamental schools. Two pedagogical advisors are to staff each center, if the budget allows.

Who steers the project

The General Directorate is responsible for management, strategic direction and overall technical monitoring. It acts through the Directorate of Fundamental Education (DEF) and the EFA/CAP Coordination Unit (UCEFA/CAP).