SBC2 - EDUCATION IN SMALL STATES
influence in a country that had fragile economic institutions. It appeared that Small States do not have measures in place to protect local industries against multinational corporations and the influence on national policy in a country in a weak social, political and economic situation. Domestic industries under such conditions begin to lose strength as they cannot compete with big foreign companies given the influence they possess. Commonwealth countries concede that strong measures should be put in place to regulate foreign industries. Deputy Pinel viewed a resource tax
as essential to reducing the level of exploitation by foreign companies. Small States should work together in tackling issues attributed to social, political and economic matters. Above all, education alone could not tackle issues of unemployment but it remains a viable and inclusive way of redressing inequality, widespread poverty and high unemployment attributed to Small States. In addition, investment in education for Commonwealth nations, to move forward and to compete with the international community, is vitally important. It is
unlikely for any country to become innovative and economically active without directing national policies which address education. For small states to be globally active, they have to pay attention to the issue of skills through training programmes and ways of attracting the traditional workforce.
Recommendations from the session
Recommendation One: “In small states the education system should attempt to maximise the development of appropriate skills to support local business and create meaningful pathways to employment.”
Recommendation Two:
“Appropriate programmes need to be put in place by governments to ensure that citizens have the relevant skills to fill employment opportunities that are available.”
Recommendation Three: “Parliaments must press upon their respective education systems to provide for and maintain basic numeracy and literacy standards for school leavers.”
“An education system should provide good quality and relevant education, soft skills, vocational training, on-the- job work experience, lifelong learning, and build partnership with world of work.”
All the recommendations were endorsed. The Parliamentarian | 2013: Issue Four | 319
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