Belize has made significant progress in improving educational outcomes through the Education Quality Improvement Program II (EQIP II), supported by the Inter-American Development Bank. The initiative focused on transforming classroom practices by strengthening teaching methods, promoting student-centered learning, and ensuring that educational reforms were guided by evidence and measurable results.
The program addressed long-standing challenges in science and mathematics performance, particularly among girls and migrant students. More than 2,300 primary school teachers received training in inquiry-based and problem-solving teaching approaches, while over 1,500 teachers were equipped with inclusive education strategies to better support migrant and vulnerable learners. Gender-responsive teaching practices were also integrated to encourage balanced participation among students.
At the secondary level, Belize introduced the Itz’At STEAM Laboratory School, an innovative model designed to improve science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics education. The school combined modern instructional methods, continuous teacher development, and rigorous evaluation to create a more engaging learning environment.
A key feature of the program was its strong focus on measuring impact. Classroom observations and randomized evaluations were used to assess whether teaching practices improved and whether those improvements translated into better student outcomes. Results showed substantial gains in teaching quality, increased student engagement, and learning improvements equivalent to approximately seven months of additional education for participating secondary students.
Despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the program successfully adapted through hybrid teacher training and the distribution of digital learning resources. More than 93,000 students across Belize, including around 15,000 migrant students, benefited from improved learning opportunities. The initiative also strengthened the capacity of Belize’s education ministry to use data-driven decision-making, support teacher development, and promote inclusive education policies.
The Belize experience demonstrates that lasting improvements in education are achieved when teacher training, evidence-based practices, inclusion, and continuous evaluation are aligned around the goal of improving classroom learning experiences.
