Officials in the Ministry of Education are hoping to establish a National Teaching Council to assist with the education system’s overall administration.

But, Education Director Lionel Sands could not say how soon the council would be established as it is a matter for Cabinet.

“I cannot comment extensively right now about the council, but it would help us a great deal,” he said.

“It would have to be discussed at the Cabinet level and then incorporated into the existing Education Act or a new piece of legislation would have to be created. When the council comes into effect in the near future, one of the things it will do is oversee the National Teacher of the Year awards.”

Mr. Sands’ comments came during a news conference held at the ministry to announce plans for the National Teacher of the Year activities.

There are 33 nominees for the 2012-2014 National Teacher of The Year award. The teachers come from New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands.

“They have distinguished themselves as excellent teachers through their work and their ideals,” Mr. Sands said.

“They each have a fair chance of winning this award and being an ambassador for education in the country. The current National Teacher – Ms. Afrika Karamo – has represented the teaching profession in an exemplary manner during her tenure. She is also an accomplished musician and is involved in a number of community activities.”

This year is the 10th anniversary of the awards and the organising committee is spearheaded by Dr. Jewel Dean.

“It is only through committed, concerned and qualified teachers that our educational system can cultivate the abilities, skills and talents of our students,” Mr. Sands said.

“Educators will be a major part of the transformation we hope to achieve in education during the next five years and beyond. In this 10th year of the awards, we truly want to focus on teaching standards and uplifting this noble profession. We want this to be a genuine national celebration and will be encouraging the general public to become involved in the various activities.”

Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) Vice President, Phil Dorsett yesterday suggested that the ministry give the winner a scholarship towards his or her professional development.
The activities will run October 9 to October 13.

It will culminate with a gala black tie awards ceremony to be held at the Wyndham Crystal Palace Hotel.