Dear Editor,

We had hoped that the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) would have demonstrated some level of concern for the exam candidates of 2022.

Instead, the examination council remains resolute in the face of external pressure, as demonstrated by its latest release, in spite of appeals coming from teachers, administrators, ministers, parents, and the candidates themselves.

Rather than being proactive when setting timetables, recognising the tremendous difficulties that this cohort has faced, CXC seems unwilling to acknowledge the profound impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

In the Caribbean region, limitations in Internet access/resources and ‘missing students’, coupled with the delayed resumption of full in-person school, a mere four months before the start of the examinations, present challenges that should be addressed by our regional body.

Other international examining bodies have appreciated the pandemic’s deleterious effect on student learning and have provided safety nets and much-needed reassurance to their candidates.

Apparently, our Caribbean students have not been affected similarly and only require a reduction in the number of school-based assessments in order to be prepared to effectively and successfully write these important exit exams.

A mere two weeks delay should not significantly impact the timing of the release of final scores. It would, however, make a huge difference to the students’ level of preparation, state of anxiety, and mental readiness as they proceed to do these exams.

The calls for a meaningful response from CXC did not just start — they have been going on for a while.

If only CXC would have the interests of the candidates at heart. They, above all, deserve a proper chance to succeed.

Grace Baston

David Henry

Kathryn Stewart

kstewart@campioncollege.com