Chief Education Officer Participates in Global Education Forum in Botswana

Paragraph 1: St. Kitts and Nevis’ Commitment to Educational Advancement

The Ministry of Education of St. Kitts and Nevis demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing educational innovation and promoting equitable access to quality education by sending its Chief Education Officer, Mr. Francil Morris, to the 11th Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning (COL-PCF11). This premier international gathering, hosted by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) in Gaborone, Botswana, from September 10th to 12th, 2025, provided a platform for Ministers of Education, scholars, and education practitioners from across the Commonwealth to explore transformative strategies for expanding access to education, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Mr. Morris’s participation underscored St. Kitts and Nevis’s dedication to engaging meaningfully on the international stage and fostering collaboration within the Commonwealth.

Paragraph 2: Focus on Inclusive Open Education and Resilient Societies

The central theme of COL-PCF11, “Innovative Open Education: Fostering Resilient Societies for Sustainable Economic Development,” highlighted the crucial role of open educational resources and approaches in building resilient communities and promoting sustainable economic growth. The forum aimed to facilitate dialogue and knowledge sharing on leveraging technology and innovative pedagogical approaches to enhance educational opportunities, especially for vulnerable populations and those in geographically isolated regions. The emphasis on open education reflected the growing recognition of its potential to democratize access to learning and empower individuals to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for personal development and societal progress.

Paragraph 3: Mr. Morris’s Dual Role and Contribution to the Forum

Mr. Morris’s participation in COL-PCF11 was multifaceted, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of open learning. Serving as both the National Focal Point for COL in St. Kitts and Nevis and a member of the Management Committee of the Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC), Mr. Morris brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the forum. His involvement in VUSSC, an organization dedicated to promoting online and distance education in small states, further emphasized his commitment to expanding access to education through innovative approaches.

Paragraph 4: Collaborative Development of a Concept Paper on Inclusive Open Education

In preparation for COL-PCF11, Mr. Morris collaborated with fellow VUSSC committee members to co-author a concept paper titled “Changing Mindsets for Inclusive Open Education – The VUSSC Leadership Initiative.” This paper, which was officially accepted by the COL-PCF11 review committee, outlines leadership strategies to foster inclusive education across small states. It addresses the critical need for a shift in mindsets among educational leaders and stakeholders to embrace open educational practices and create learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of all learners. The paper’s presentation at the forum provided a valuable opportunity to share these strategies with a wider audience and promote their adoption within the Commonwealth.

Paragraph 5: Strategic Discussions and Planning for VUSSC’s Future

Prior to the commencement of the forum, Mr. Morris participated in the VUSSC Management Committee Meeting, where members discussed strategic priorities for the organization’s 2026–2028 planning cycle. This meeting served as a crucial platform for shaping the future direction of VUSSC and ensuring its continued relevance in the evolving landscape of online and distance education. The discussions focused on identifying key challenges and opportunities for VUSSC in supporting small states in their efforts to harness the potential of open learning to strengthen education systems and foster inclusive development. Mr. Morris’s involvement in these strategic discussions underscored St. Kitts and Nevis’s active role in shaping the future of open learning within the Commonwealth.

Paragraph 6: The Significance of COL-PCF11 and St. Kitts and Nevis’s Engagement

Mr. Morris’s attendance at COL-PCF11, made possible through the support of COL-VUSSC, not only highlighted St. Kitts and Nevis’s commitment to educational advancement but also reaffirmed the nation’s belief in the transformative power of open learning. The forum provided a valuable opportunity for Mr. Morris and other participants to engage in robust discussions, share best practices, and forge new partnerships to advance the cause of inclusive open education. By actively participating in international forums like COL-PCF11, St. Kitts and Nevis demonstrates its dedication to learning from global experiences, contributing to the development of innovative educational strategies, and ensuring that all its citizens have access to quality learning opportunities that contribute to their personal and professional growth.