NINE STUDENTS have been awarded scholarships by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture to study Mathematics/Science with Education at the University of the West Indies this year.
The programme, which was started in 1994, is designed to provide more trained teachers for Mathematics and Science subjects at the CXC and Advanced levels.
According to Mr. Wesley Barrett, Chief Education Officer, in the Ministry, "the programme aims at ensuring that teachers are qualified in the content and methodology, and targets sixth form students and teachers' college graduates desirous of becoming Mathematics and Science teachers."
Assistant Chief Education Officer, in the Tertiary Unit of the Ministry, Mr. Philbert Dhyll, pointed out that, "the students had to meet the University matriculation requirements as well as those of the Faculty of Pure and Applied Science. In addition they needed passes in 'A' Level Science subjects or a Diploma in Teaching, majoring in Double Option Science or Mathematics."
In addition to the degree in Mathematics/Science with Education scholarships, the Ministry started a new programme in September 2002 that covers the payment of tuition fees for Double Option Science and Mathematics in Teachers' Colleges.
This year, 66 first year students at Mico, Shortwood, and Church Teachers' Colleges were awarded scholarships totalling $2,694,662. In order to retain the scholarship throughout their studies, students must maintain at least a B average. They will also be required to serve a bond.
"The Ministry has been conducting three-year summer workshops for diploma trained teachers, which prepares them to sit and pass a challenge exam in order to matriculate for the Faculty of Pure and Applied Science. The workshops are aimed at improving the qualification of Science and Mathematics teachers to meet the University of the West Indies Natural Science N1 Programme or 'A' Level standard, as previously many of these teachers did not have passes in 'A' Level Mathematics and science subjects."
The officers are encouraging qualified persons to apply for these scholarships as they provide opportunities to pursue rewarding careers in the field of education.
