Department of School Services to be Established

A Department of School Services (DSS) is slated to be established in the new fiscal year, to coordinate activities and provide a stronger focus on school improvement and accountability.

The DSS is aimed at improving the quality of education and output from the system.

This was disclosed by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, while delivering the Throne Speech on Thursday, February 19, at Gordon House.

The Governor-General said the Government will also embark on a rationalisation programme of the early childhood sector to convert under-resourced basic schools into infant departments of primary schools.

As it relates to safeguarding the nation’s children, the Governor-General informed that significant review of the Child Care and Protection Act and the Children (Adoption of) Act, have been completed.

In addition, he said the Green Paper for the National Youth Policy has been completed and focuses on a “joined-up” approach, placing youth at the centre of development.

The Throne Speech, titled ‘Partnership for Development: Inclusive Growth…Expanding Opportunities’, outlined the priority programmes and policies to be pursued by the Government during the new fiscal year.