Ministerie van Onderwijs, Wetenschap en Cultuur

Overview

The Ministerie van Onderwijs, Wetenschap en Cultuur (MinOWC) of Suriname is the central government authority responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to education, science, and culture in the country. Established in 1954, MinOWC oversees the national education system, including primary, secondary, and higher education, as well as scientific research and cultural affairs. The ministry aims to provide equitable access to quality education, promote scientific advancement, and preserve and promote Suriname's rich cultural heritage. According to uniRank, MinOWC plays a critical role in Suriname's development by shaping the nation's educational, scientific, and cultural policies.

Historical and Legal Framework

MinOWC was founded in 1954, evolving from the former Ministry of Education and Community Development. The ministry operates under the legal framework established by the Constitution of Suriname and various national laws and decrees pertaining to education, science, and culture. The most recent significant policy development is the National Education Policy 2024–2031, which was developed in close cooperation with the five directorates of the ministry and consultations with stakeholders from civil society and the private sector. This policy aims to ensure that all students in Suriname acquire the competencies, skills, and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

2) Mission, Vision, and Objectives — Role in Higher Education

Mission: MinOWC's mission is to develop and implement policies that ensure equitable access to quality education, promote scientific research and innovation, and preserve and promote Suriname's cultural heritage.

Vision: To establish a dynamic and inclusive education system that fosters lifelong learning, scientific advancement, and cultural enrichment, contributing to the sustainable development of Suriname.

Objectives in Higher Education:

• Enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education institutions.
• Promote research and innovation in various scientific fields.
• Strengthen the alignment of higher education programs with national development needs.
• Support the professional development of educators and researchers.
• Encourage international collaboration and exchange in higher education and research.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

MinOWC operates under the authority of the President of Suriname and is managed by a Minister appointed by the President. The ministry's organizational structure comprises five directorates, each responsible for specific areas:

• Directorate of Education: Oversees primary, secondary, and tertiary education.
• Directorate of Science and Technology: Manages scientific research and technological development.
• Directorate of Culture: Promotes and preserves Suriname's cultural heritage.
• Directorate of Vocational Education: Focuses on technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
• Directorate of International Relations: Handles international cooperation and partnerships.

While MinOWC operates within the framework of the Surinamese government, it maintains a degree of operational autonomy to effectively manage and implement policies in education, science, and culture.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation — Role in Higher Education

MinOWC plays a crucial role in accrediting higher education institutions and programs in Suriname. The ministry establishes standards and guidelines for accreditation, ensuring that institutions meet national and international quality benchmarks. It also conducts regular evaluations to assess the performance and effectiveness of higher education institutions, fostering continuous improvement and accountability. Through these efforts, MinOWC aims to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education in Suriname, aligning it with the country's development goals.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MinOWC actively engages in international cooperation to enhance the quality of education, science, and culture in Suriname. The ministry collaborates with various international organizations and institutions to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. Notably, MinOWC has partnered with the Islamic Development Bank to implement a TVET project aimed at enhancing the acquisition of skills and employability of graduates. Additionally, the ministry has strengthened cooperation with ICESCO (Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) to implement shared programs that reflect Suriname's rich cultural diversity.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

MinOWC's initiatives are poised to significantly impact higher education in Suriname. The implementation of the National Education Policy 2024–2031 is expected to:

• Improve the quality and accessibility of higher education institutions.
• Enhance the alignment of academic programs with labor market demands.
• Promote research and innovation to address national challenges.
• Foster international collaboration and exchange opportunities for students and faculty.
• Strengthen the professional development of educators and researchers.

These efforts aim to position Suriname's higher education system as a key driver of the nation's sustainable development.

Summary

The Ministerie van Onderwijs, Wetenschap en Cultuur is a pivotal institution in Suriname, responsible for shaping the nation's education, science, and cultural policies. Through its comprehensive approach, the ministry aims to provide equitable access to quality education, promote scientific research and innovation, and preserve and promote Suriname's rich cultural heritage. Its ongoing initiatives and international collaborations are expected to have a lasting impact on the development of higher education in Suriname, contributing to the nation's progress and prosperity.

FAQs

• What is the role of the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture in Suriname?

  The ministry is responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to education, science, and culture in Suriname, overseeing the national education system, and promoting scientific research and cultural affairs.

• When was the Ministry established?

  The Ministry was established in 1954 and has since evolved to address the changing needs of Suriname's education, science, and cultural sectors.

• Who heads the Ministry?

  The Ministry is headed by a Minister appointed by the President of Suriname. The current Minister is Dr. Henri Ori.

• What are the key objectives of the National Education Policy 2024–2031?

  The policy aims to ensure that all students in Suriname acquire the competencies, skills, and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world, with a focus on inclusive and high-quality education.

• How does the Ministry support higher education institutions?

  The Ministry supports higher education institutions through accreditation processes, quality evaluations, funding opportunities, and fostering international collaborations to enhance the quality and relevance of academic programs.

Organization Name

Ministerie van Onderwijs, Wetenschap en Cultuur
Ministry of Education, Science and Culture

Acronym

Year of Establishment

1/01/1954

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Dr. S. Kafiluddistraat 117 - 123
Paramaribo
Suriname

Phone

+597 498 850

Fax

+587 495 083

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

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X (Twitter)

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LinkedIn

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YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

Ministerie van Onderwijs, Wetenschap en Cultuur's Wikipedia article

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