The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a US$50 million program to strengthen foundational learning skills and improve access to inclusive, climate-resilient education in Barbados. The Barbados Education Sector Transformation Program, implemented by the Ministry of Education Transformation, aims to lay the groundwork for more and better jobs by enhancing pre-primary and primary education.
Barbados has consistently invested in education, allocating around 4.9 percent of its GDP—comparable to high-income countries and above regional averages. Despite high enrollment and attainment rates, learning outcomes remain a challenge. Foundational deficits in literacy and numeracy appear early, with 2023 data showing 30 percent of students scored below acceptable levels in mathematics on end-of-primary national exams. A reliance on high-stakes testing has also tended to favor higher-performing students, leaving others without adequate support.
The program addresses these challenges through targeted literacy and numeracy initiatives, strengthened teacher training, improved classroom practices, and enhanced assessment systems to track student progress. It also seeks to expand early childhood education, upgrade school infrastructure to be climate-resilient and energy-efficient, improve digital connectivity, and ensure accessibility for students with special educational needs.
Approximately 23,000 students in public nursery and primary schools are expected to benefit directly, alongside over 1,300 teachers and school leaders who will receive professional development. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley emphasized that the program aims to provide every child with the tools to succeed and lead in the global economy. Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean, highlighted the importance of quality early education in preparing children to adapt, innovate, and strengthen Barbados’ long-term economic resilience.
The program is part of Barbados’ broader Education Transformation Initiative and will use a Program-for-Results financing model, with funds released based on the achievement of specific, verifiable milestones, ensuring that investments translate into tangible improvements in learning outcomes and future employment opportunities.
