WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao is projected to have a reduced need for schools in 2030, with only 60 out of the current 90 schools anticipated to be necessary. Sithree van Heydoorn, the Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sport (OWCS), made this announcement yesterday during a presentation on the Maintenance of Schools project.
The minister's statement is based on the declining birth rates that Curaçao has been experiencing over the years. In response to this trend, the schools in Curaçao are undergoing renovations and refurbishments to meet a standardized set of requirements. To support these efforts, the Netherlands has allocated 30 million euros for the project.
The funding will be allocated towards the refurbishment of approximately 20 to 25 schools, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards and are equipped to provide quality education to students. The aim is to optimize the use of resources while ensuring that educational facilities are modern, safe, and conducive to effective learning.
By reevaluating the school infrastructure in light of changing demographics, Curaçao is taking proactive steps to align its education system with future needs. The projected decrease in the number of schools reflects a practical approach to resource allocation and an emphasis on providing an optimal learning environment for students.
Minister van Heydoorn highlighted the importance of this initiative in adapting to the evolving educational landscape, stating, "We must be responsive to the changing demographics and optimize our educational infrastructure accordingly. By renovating and modernizing a selected number of schools, we can ensure that our students receive the best possible education."