The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has expressed strong concerns over what it describes as ongoing instability within the Ministry of Education, following the government’s latest Cabinet reshuffle. This marks the fourth ministerial change in the education portfolio in seven years.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the DLP claimed that the frequent changes are creating confusion and distrust among students, teachers, parents, and other education stakeholders. The party said the timing of the reshuffle—on the eve of the 11-Plus examination—was especially troubling.
“The Prime Minister’s leadership on education is becoming more uncertain with every decision,” said Felicia Dujon, DLP Spokesperson for Education. “Instead of a well-planned approach, we see reactionary changes that leave the public questioning whether the government truly has a vision for education in Barbados.”
“This is not about politics—this is about our children’s future. No stable country changes its education leadership this frequently. What message does this send to our students, teachers, and parents? That their concerns are secondary to political maneuvering?” she added
Dujon further argued that the reshuffle disrupts the ongoing education reform process, which she claimed has already cost taxpayers millions without producing tangible improvements.
The DLP also raised concerns about the lack of consultation with the teachers’ union prior to the reshuffle, describing it as part of a broader pattern of excluding key stakeholders from important discussions.
While acknowledging that there is no legal requirement for consultation in Cabinet reshuffles, the party said that strong leadership demands a pragmatic approach that minimizes disruption and prioritizes the well-being of those affected
Additionally, the party criticised the government for not debating the Ministry of Education’s budget—over $400 million annually—in Parliament for the second consecutive year. Dujon questioned the lack of transparency, asking why, despite substantial allocations, schools remain under-resourced and teachers overburdened.
“How can the government claim to be transforming education when it refuses to openly discuss its spending? How can we trust a ministry that makes major changes behind closed doors, with no accountability to the people it serves?” she asked. “The decision-making processes surrounding education seem dubious, and Barbadians deserve answers.”
The DLP extended best wishes to the new ministers but emphasised the significant challenges ahead, including what it described as a declining system, an undervalued teaching service and concerned parents.
“We must move beyond political reshuffles and towards real leadership. Our children’s future is far too important to be left to uncertainty,” Dujon added, “Barbados needs an education system built on careful planning, meaningful engagement, and a commitment to excellence—not last-minute decisions that only create more instability.” (PR)
