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Belize and the United States of America have officially launched a nearly US$22 million education partnership to strengthen secondary education, improving teacher training and preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce over the next five years. The initiative, launched through the Millennium Challenge Account Belize, brings together School to School International, Florida State University, the Ministry of Education and the University of Belize:

Andre Bauer, US Ambassador to Belize
"Over this next five years, we're going to bring U.S. excellence in teacher training and instructional leadership to Belize, and I think this is a win-win partnership for Belize and the United States that bilaterally benefits both countries, and it's going to benefit Belizean secondary schools, as well as American educational institutions. This is really a remarkable partnership. STS, FSU, MCA Belize will all partner with the Ministry of Education and the University of Belize to provide secondary school teachers and school leaders with the training, resources, and leadership opportunities that will support them to deliver high-quality educational opportunities for all secondary students. I'm a father myself, and I'm proud the United States is committed to improving education in Belize, because we know a good education opens opportunities for students across this great country."

Prime Minister John Briceno, said the education component will focus on strengthening teaching and school leadership:

John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Over five years, this compact valued at $135 million US dollars. It will be addressing two barriers that affects opportunity in Belize. The need for education that better prepares our young people for work and the cost and reliability of electricity. That places the cost, that places pressures on families and businesses. In education, we will strengthen teaching and school leadership, support students who face barriers to completing secondary school and improve technical and vocational training."

The program is also expected to create opportunities for collaboration between Belizean and American educational institutions, with its implementation adapted to the needs of local teachers and students.

Andre Bauer, US Ambassador to Belize
"This compact of increasing the number of graduates with competencies needed for successful employment in the job market, and that in fold helps our businesses. Belizean businesses that want to grow and are looking for gainful and skilled people to employ. Our American colleagues again from FSU and STS leading this partnership are internationally recognized experts in their fields, and we're excited about this opportunity. This partnership represents for them an opportunity to share their knowledge with our Belizean counterparts."

The PM also emphasized the importance of aligning education with the needs of the economy, noting that many students graduate from high school without the qualifications needed to secure meaningful employment.

John Briceno, Prime Minister
"For our young Belizean, then this must mean a clear path from the classroom to qualifications and from qualifications to meaningful employment. For too long, we hear that we are graduating so many kids from high school, but when they leave the high school, it's difficult for them to get a meaningful job. You know, many instances, they end up working in a store And by us being able to align the educational system better with the needs of the economy, I think that we're not only planning for the future, but we are creating better opportunities for young Belizeans."

"Our responsibility is to ensure that young people in rural communities, students with disabilities, and those facing difficult circumstances can share in these opportunities. Their potential is part of Belize's national wealth."

Jaleeza Roberts, 7 News.