Aruba and Bonaire sign an agreement to strengthen educational cooperation in the Caribbean.

This agreement formalizes the collaboration between the two institutions in the areas of training, innovation, and the exchange of educational materials.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Mrs. Gerlien Croes, Minister of Kingdom Relations, Education, Youth, Innovation, and Sports, who represented the Government of Aruba and Colegio EPI, and Ms. L. Wolff, Unit Director of MBO at SGB MBO Bonaire.

The collaboration is based on a shared goal: improving the quality of secondary vocational education (MBO) in the region and promoting a culture of lifelong learning (LLO), learning and growth throughout all stages of life. The agreement stipulates that SGB MBO Bonaire, as the coordinating partner, will provide educational and administrative materials developed in collaboration with development partners. These materials include teacher manuals, lesson plans, syllabi, and digital guides, as well as models for internal processes and educational management.

For Colegio EPI, the agreement represents a significant opportunity to:

• expand and modernize its vocational training programs;
• exchange experiences and teaching methods with other institutions in the Caribbean;
• further strengthen relations with the Netherlands and the region based on knowledge and innovation.

Minister Gerlien Croes expressed her satisfaction with this step and emphasized the importance of educational collaboration within the region, particularly within the Kingdom:

“We believe that education is most powerful when we learn and grow together. The collaboration with SGB MBO Bonaire is an example of how our institutions can share resources, experience, and inspiration to provide high-quality education that prepares our young people for a sustainable future.”

The project is an important step in strengthening the Caribbean education network, promoting academic excellence, and creating more opportunities for students and professionals.