Adults reap success in CCSLC

Thirty-nine adult students have successfully sat examinations in what has been described as a “pioneering event” – part of their quest to attain the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence.{{more}}

During a press conference at the Division of Adult and Continuing Education on Tuesday, September 1, several of the students were presented with slips confirming their achievements in Mathematics, English and Social Studies.

The majority of candidates, whose ages range from 18 to 62, attained passes at the competence level. Two candidates were awarded passes at the developing competence level (under 50 per cent), while four gained their subjects at master’s level (75 – 100 per cent).

Candidates are expected to gain competence in at least five subject areas over a three-year period in order to be awarded the CCSLC, which tests their skills, aptitude and abilities to indicate their ability to learn.

Programme Coordinators Ann Jones (Zone 6) and Leroy Rock (Zone 5) congratulated the adult learners on their attainment and encouraged them to continue until they have achieved their goals.

Jones explained that she had worked closely with facilitators and 20 candidates in her designated zone.

“It was a tedious task, but one that they put their all into… [and] their efforts have not gone in vain!” she added.

Rock explained that the papers were marked externally and certified by CXC, and that he expects candidates to begin study in the upcoming academic year in subjects such as Basic Spanish, Integrated Science, Food Preparation and Computing.

He suggested that the success of these adult learners would help to cement the Adult and Continuing Education Unit’s role in the greater scheme of things.

“We have moved from basic literacy to CXC…,” Rock added. “We are players in the education revolution!”

Director of the Division of Adult and Continuing Education Frances Clarke praised the achievements of the students and the tireless efforts of the coordinators and facilitators.

“Keep on keeping on… Don’t stop now. You cannot turn back!”

Clarke further noted that adult and continuing education was not limited to learning to read and write, but was about expanding knowledge in the absence of a secondary level education.

CCSLC facilitators included James Wilson, Taies Thomas, Gerwin Pompey and Thedica Commissiong. (JSV)