WILLEMSTAD – The Parliament of Curaçao has adopted a motion instructing the government to conduct an in-depth investigation into the high dropout rate within the LOFO teacher training program, citing concerns about the long-term quality and continuity of primary education on the island.
The motion was adopted during a public parliamentary session on December 15, 2025, and was approved unanimously, according to the official voting record .
Teacher Shortages and Structural Weaknesses
In the motion, Parliament emphasizes that the LOFO program (Leraar Opleiding Funderend Onderwijs) plays a critical role in training primary school teachers in Curaçao. However, lawmakers note that far more students drop out of the program than successfully complete it, which has structural consequences for the availability and quality of teaching staff.
Parliament warns that persistent dropout rates undermine not only teacher supply, but also educational quality, public-sector efficiency, and the effective use of public funds. The success rate of teacher training programs is described as a key indicator for the overall health of the education system.
Call for Comprehensive Analysis
The motion calls on the government to carry out a thorough investigation into the causes behind the high dropout rate, examining a wide range of possible contributing factors. These include:
- The structure and intensity of the LOFO program
- The combination of work and study obligations for students
- Financial pressures faced by participants
- The availability and quality of mentorship and guidance
- The curriculum design and examination structure
According to Parliament, understanding these factors is essential to developing effective solutions that improve access, guidance, and sustainability within teacher training.
University Collaboration Required
Lawmakers further instruct the government to conduct the investigation in collaboration with the University of Curaçao and other relevant educational institutions, ensuring academic rigor and practical insight.
The government is required to report its findings to Parliament within six months, allowing legislators to assess whether policy changes or additional investments are needed to strengthen teacher education.
Broader Educational Stakes
By adopting the motion, Parliament signals that teacher training is not only an educational issue but a strategic national priority. Addressing dropout rates is seen as essential to safeguarding future generations of students and ensuring a stable, high-quality primary education system in Curaçao.
The motion has been formally forwarded to the Government of Curaçao, the Governor, and the University of Curaçao, marking the start of what is expected to be a critical review of how teachers are trained on the island.