In a rapidly evolving global economy, the need for a skilled STEM workforce in Jamaica has become more critical than ever. This demand was emphasized by Ricardo Allen, the CEO of One on One Educational Services Limited, at the JSE Regional Investment & Capital Markets Conference in New Kingston.
- The STEM Challenge:
- More than half of Jamaica’s workforce lacks certification in STEM fields.
- This poses a significant obstacle to the country’s global competitiveness.
- The global job market now allows for remote hiring of STEM professionals from anywhere, creating a challenge for local companies in retaining talent.
- Solving the STEM Problem:
- Allen stressed the urgency of addressing the STEM deficiency in Jamaica.
- Only 40% of the current workforce is trained in STEM, despite its transformative impact globally.
- The need to bridge the learning gap in secondary and tertiary education is crucial.
- Transforming the Workforce:
- Improving math education is an essential step in preparing the workforce.
- Enhancing teacher pay and retention is vital for long-term success.
- Bold changes are required to elevate the status of educators in Jamaica.
Neela Marquez, CEO of Massy Remittances, highlighted the role of technology adoption in the Caribbean, particularly focusing on access to computers and digital literacy among high school students and the elderly.
- Embracing Technology:
- Empowering youth with technology is key to fostering innovation and adaptability.
- Older workers need support and training to prevent them from being left behind in the digital age.
- Human capital is the region’s greatest asset, and maximizing it requires inclusive strategies.
Oniel Cross, a partner at Deloitte in the US, shared the success of their STEM programme that targets underrepresented communities, leading students to pursue STEM subjects at universities.
Despite the challenges, there is hope for Jamaica’s future workforce through targeted educational initiatives and investments in STEM education.
As Jamaica navigates the changing demands of the global economy, investing in STEM education and empowering the workforce with digital skills are crucial steps in securing a prosperous future. It is time to take bold actions to ensure Jamaica remains competitive and innovative in the digital age.
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