Led by Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia Pratt, government officials and students gathered at the Southern Recreation Grounds on Tuesday for the launch of a new textbook on Bahamian history to be used in senior high schools across the nation.
At the well attended ceremony, Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis said the launch of the first ever Bahamian authored history textbook is not just about the book but about decolonizing our minds. Speaking directly to the high school students in attendance Mr. Davis said, “and so I say to every student who will crack open these pages learn it, own it, love it, see yourself in it, be proud of it, add your own chapter to it.”
Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, the Hon. Glenys Hanna Martin is she to be the brainchild of the idea to create the book. She said she hopes the new history book will help young people gain a greater sense of self and a deeper understanding of who they are, what they are and where they must go.
The textbook entitled Towards a Common Loftier Goal was written by twelve Bahamian authors. It covers significant moments of history from pre-independence to more recent events. Co-Chair of the Steering Committee, Dr. Christopher Curry described the book as, “both comprehensive in scope and content yet reliable, relatable, engaging, enriching, stimulating and student friendly.”
The book is expected to become a part of the curriculum in September.
