An Investigation of Education Factors that Foster Social and Economic Growth in Barbados

The Barbados Government has embarked upon a novel approach to governing, coordinating and growing the economy. This new methodology is codified in a series of Country Missions that provide a framework for achieving excellence in our human and societal development. The overall aim is to promote strong, inclusive economic growth that will raise living standards, combat marginalization (especially among young people), and provide greater long-term income security for Barbadians, thus helping to combat crime. A further aim of the initiative is to meet critical development needs by paying attention to areas such as adequate supply of healthy, affordable food, a revitalized and sustainable agriculture sector and quality, affordable health care. Among the avenues identified to pursue these desired outcomes is education. It is posited that quality education can help students to develop attitudes, skills and competencies necessary for national economic growth. These necessary qualities go beyond the acquisition of academic knowledge and certification and encompass the so-called ‘soft’ skills that engender skills such as effective communication, respect for self and others, a spirit of collaboration rather than competition, critical thinking and problem solving.