General functions of the Ministry of Education

(1) The Ministry, under the general direction of the Minister, shall work in partnership, consultation and cooperation with churches, communities, voluntary and private organizations, and such other organizations and bodies which the Ministry may identify and recognize as education partners for the sufficient and efficient provision of education in Belize. (2) In discharging its functions under subsection (1) of this section, the Ministry shall, (a) establish and set national education goals and policies; (b) set standards for the education system; (c) issue licenses to and educational institutions, provided that all prerequisites to licensing are met; (d) issue licenses to teachers, provided that all the prerequisites to licensing are met; (e) provide support systems for the effective delivery of appropriate and equitable educational services at all levels of the education system; (f) monitor the quality and effectiveness of education in the following levels and sectors of the education system: preschool, primary, secondary, TVET, post- secondary and tertiary. Education and Training [CAP. 36.0115 (3) The Minister shall appoint District Education Councils to assist the Ministry in planning, managing and monitoring the delivery of educational services in each district in Belize. The composition and terms of reference of the District Education Councils shall be as specified in Rules made under this Act pursuant to section 72 of this Act.