Barbados and Jamaica are once again strengthening their relationship through an exchange program that involves students and teachers. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in Barbados is lending its support to the initiative, which aims to enhance learning and teaching methodologies while improving overall student achievement.

This year, 24 sixth-form students from Harrison College will be heading off to Jamaica to participate in a Student Exchange with Ardenne High School. The program is the second of its kind in Barbados and is intended to make the students more flexible, creative, and innovative.

Accompanying the students will be six staff members, including Carl Applewhaite, the former Sixth Form Year Head. Applewhaite explained that the exchange program aims to impact four main areas of student development – academic advances, inter-cultural sensitivities, personal goals, and professional benefits.

The program also provides an opportunity for the students to become more aware of regional issues that they may have to confront in the future. It is seen as a chance for their sensibilities to be widened as they are exposed to different cultures and perspectives.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in Barbados supports the initiative as part of their efforts to foster a deeper relationship with Jamaica. This is in line with the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed between the two countries on May 19, 2023.

As part of the program, courtesy calls will be made to Jamaican Government Ministers, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

Overall, the exchange program between Barbados and Jamaica aims to not only improve educational opportunities for students but also create a stronger bond between the two countries. With each exchange, students and teachers have the chance to learn from each other’s cultures, develop their skills, and build lifelong friendships.

It is clear that both Barbados and Jamaica recognize the importance of investing in education and building international relationships. This exchange program serves as a testament to their commitment to fostering academic growth and cultural understanding among their youth.