WILLEMSTAD – The role of supplementary education outside traditional classrooms is becoming increasingly significant in shaping student performance in Curaçao’s primary education system. According to the recently published report ‘The State of Education 2024’ by the Education Inspectorate, more institutions outside of schools are taking on educational responsibilities, a trend widely recognized in academic literature as ‘shadow education’.
The report highlights that a considerable portion of the quality of education provided by schools is owed to the efforts of parents, volunteers, and external organizations, including businesses, sports clubs, after-school programs, and tutoring centers. These external influences are playing an essential role in shaping students’ academic success.
“The results are largely dependent on the opportunities available to parents and students, as well as the positioning of schools within society,” the report states. However, it also warns that reliance on these external entities exposes gaps in the formal education system that need urgent attention.
Structural Challenges in the Education System
The rise of shadow education is linked to shortcomings within the formal schooling system. The report points to a lack of adequate instructional time, insufficient focus on cognitive development, and limited attention to broader developmental areas. Furthermore, deficiencies in school-based student support services and varying levels of teacher effectiveness contribute to the growing dependence on supplementary education.
Beyond academic achievements, the report emphasizes that education outcomes should also include students' social competencies, which encompass emotional development, interpersonal skills, and the ability to adapt to different situations.
To assess these factors, the Education Inspectorate relies on student monitoring systems and educational reports. Positive outcomes are indicated when the majority of students complete their primary education by the age of twelve, with only a small fraction experiencing delays.
The findings underscore the need for a more balanced approach within the education system, ensuring that all students, regardless of external resources, receive equitable opportunities for academic and personal development.