By Bonnietha John
Investing in quality education is one of the most effective ways to uplift communities and create lasting change. Ms. John, a candidate in the upcoming Barbuda Council Elections, is committed to enhancing the education system by increasing the number of teachers in primary and secondary schools.
By ensuring that classrooms have adequate staffing, students can receive more individualized attention, leading to better academic outcomes. Addressing teacher shortages will also help to reduce burnout among educators, allowing them to focus on delivering high-quality instruction.
In addition to hiring more teachers, Ms. John recognizes the importance of professional development and training programs. Supporting ongoing teacher training ensures that educators stay up to date with modern teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, and subject matter expertise.
Investing in classroom resources, such as updated textbooks, technology, and interactive learning tools, will further improve the learning experience for students. By equipping teachers and students with the right tools, Ms. John aims to create an environment where education thrives.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. John envisions mentorship programs and scholarships to inspire the next generation of educators.
By providing guidance and financial assistance to students pursuing careers in education, she hopes to encourage more young people to enter the field. Partnering with local and international organizations will help to expand these initiatives, bringing in additional expertise and funding. Through these combined efforts, Ms. John seeks to build a strong, sustainable education system that benefits both teachers and students for years to come.
Barbuda sporting complex
Barbuda’s sporting infrastructure is in dire need of attention, with only two primary areas available for sports activities: the basketball complex and Coronation Park. The basketball complex is in need of significant renovation to make it safe and usable for the community, while Coronation Park, a key venue for cricket and football, lacks essential amenities like proper lighting, seating areas, and restroom facilities. These gaps in infrastructure hinder the development of sports in Barbuda, affecting not only local athletes but also the ability to host larger events that could boost community engagement and tourism.
The absence of lighting at both the basketball complex and Coronation Park restricts the use of these facilities to daylight hours, limiting the opportunities for evening practices or matches. This issue particularly impacts students and working adults who can only participate after school or work. Additionally, the lack of bathrooms and seating at the cricket and football fields makes the venues uncomfortable for both players and spectators, discouraging community support and participation. These essential improvements would not only increase the usage of these facilities but also contribute to fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the community.
Addressing these challenges presents an excellent opportunity to invest in Barbuda’s future, particularly in youth development. As part of a broader strategy, you could explore partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and international organizations to raise funds for the renovation and development of these sports facilities. Offering sponsorships or organizing fundraising events could provide the necessary resources to make Barbuda’s sports venues more accessible and functional. This investment would provide Barbuda’s youth with the facilities they need to develop their skills and engage in healthy activities, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.
