asked the Minister for Education the reviews which are taking place to ensure that there is a more obvious relationship between the educational system and the economy.
Written Answers. - Educational System — Economy Reviews.
20.
My Department are presently undertaking the following major reviews: A review of the primary education system; a review of the first level curriculum; a review of the second level curriculum; a review of third level education, including an assessment of job needs places to be provided, costs and funding; a review of third level courses leading to awards by the NCEA and other bodies outside the universities.
All of these reviews will take account as appropriate in each sector of education, of: the needs of the economy for a trained and educated manpower force; the need to ensure that those leaving the education system are equipped to find employment; the need to address the problems created by unemployment; anticipated demographic changes; the ability of the economy to resource and the recommended syllabi and programmes; the duty of the State to provide first level education for all, second level education for all who require it, and further education for as many as possible, while ensuring equality of treatment and safeguarding the interest of the child in promoting his or her educational development.
As appropriate, the needs and interests of business and industry will be considered in these reviews, and will continue to influence the development of educational and training programmes through consultation in the design of programmes and syllabi, and through work experience programmes and the feedback from these.