THE Alternative Pathways to Secondary Education programme – a seven-year period (Grades 7-13) of instruction for students on all secondary pathways – has been fully implemented.

This was disclosed by Education, Youth and Information Minister, Senator Ruel Reid, in his national back-to-school broadcast on January 6.

Under this programme, instruction will be based on tailored curricula, enabling each learner to perform to his/her fullest potential, based on aptitude, interest and ability.

“The ministry effected an additional two years in our secondary-school system to provide students with skills and competencies required for work. This has been made possible under the framework of the Career Advancement Programme, which has been introduced in 202 institutions, so far, and is working well for our young people,” Senator Reid said.

The education minister also informed that the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in the education system continues, noting that over $100 million was provided to schools to upgrade science areas.

In addition, Senator Reid said the Centre of Occupational Studies now has enrolled more than 1,000 students. The first graduation of over 400 students took place in November of last year.