BSTU seeks urgent meeting with new education minister

The Barbados Secondary Teachers’ Union (BSTU) has expressed eagerness to collaborate with the newly appointed Minister of Educational Transformation, Senator Chad Blackman, as it seeks to address pressing issues affecting teachers and students.

BSTU President Mary Redman revealed on Thursday evening that she was preparing correspondence to arrange a courtesy call with Minister Blackman to discuss matters of mutual interest.

“I am in the process of writing a letter to send off to the ministry, asking for a courtesy call on Minister Blackman; and we will know exactly what the proposal is in terms of the organisation of the ministry . . . and we will be able to discuss things of mutual interests and importance to us; he as minister and we as teachers’ trade union, so that we can work in the best interests of teachers and students,” Redman told Barbados TODAY.

Reflecting on Blackman’s remarks during his presentation at a recent Matthew Farley Lecture, Redman noted his commitment to implementing change and innovation for young people to prepare them for the demands of the 21st century. At the time, Blackman was minister of economic affairs and investment.

“And, as a union, we are excited to be working with him on this, through his responsibility for education transformation. Education transformation is something that the BSTU sees as vital, and we are committed to being an integral part of the process,” Redman pledged.

The BSTU president also indicated that the union intends to meet with the new Minister of Training and Tertiary Education, Sandra Husbands, at a later date. She noted that Minister Husbands is no stranger to the BSTU, having worked with her during her tenure as minister of state in the Ministry of Education.

Redman took the opportunity to thank former Education Minister Kay McConney for her efforts while in office, particularly her support and collaboration with teachers’ unions on educational policies and challenges. She wished McConney well in her new role as economic affairs and investment minister.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced a Cabinet reshuffle on Tuesday, reassigning Blackman, McConney, and Husbands to new portfolios as part of efforts to strengthen her administration’s focus on national priorities.

(EJ)