Anthony Haynes, (right) general manager, Caribbean Cement Company, with Monica McKennon-Gayle, senior education officer, early childhood education unit, shortly after presenting reading books, texts and other materials for 11 schools in the communities near the cement company's Rockfort, Kingston offices, last week. - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

The Ministry of Education is moving to implement a foreign language policy for schools, according to Henry Harley, senior director of human resources in the ministry.

Speaking with The Gleaner on Friday, during a general meeting for teachers of foreign languages, Harley said it was important for Jamaicans to know a foreign language, especially in light of Spanish and other investments here.

"The fact is that there are so many opportunities for us as citizens of the globe to interact with the Caribbean and the rest of the world and to be more adaptable," Harley told The Gleaner.

He noted that foreign languages are difficult to learn as one gets older, and the ministry will therefore be focussing on the school level.

He said the policy, which is in the draft stage, will guide the teaching/learning activities of languages.

It will also outline the methodologies to be used.

Asked if the ministry plans to introduce foreign languages at the early childhood level, Harley said he strongly believed that there will be a focus at that level.

The objectives of the meeting, which was held at Caenwood Centre, Kingston, were to share with teachers, information on upgrading opportunities for them, as well as best practices in using interactive methods in foreign language classes.

Michelle McKoy of the University of the West Indies, presented on interactive teaching techniques that could be used in the foreign language classroom.