Marcus Nicolaas and Marvio Cooks
PHILIPSBURG--Marvio Cooks scored 19 out of 20 for his final project in a 75-hour UNESCO programme on inclusive education and digital transformation, with his proposal focusing on gaps in St. Maarten’s educational data system and responsible use of artificial intelligence in schools.
The St. Maarten National Commission for UNESCO congratulated Cooks and Marcus Nicolaas on completing the Deep-Dive Programme: Inclusive Education and Digital Transformation in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The online programme was hosted by UNESCO and the International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP UNESCO).
The programme trained public officials across the region on making education more accessible and using artificial intelligence responsibly in schools. Participants studied topics including basic human rights in education, the benefits and risks of AI and ways to support vulnerable students.
For his final project, Cooks examined St. Maarten’s educational data system. His proposal pointed to missing or scattered information as a problem that makes it difficult for the government to identify struggling students and measure progress.
He recommended creating a clear policy to help students re-enter the school system and updating the ministry’s data tools to track student needs.
Cooks also proposed a “policy-first” approach to AI, with strong privacy rules and human oversight before introducing new technology, particularly to help young mothers remain in school.
The IIEP UNESCO tutoring team praised the proposal for its institutional relevance and potential to serve as a foundation for future educational planning in St. Maarten.
Nicolaas also completed the programme, focusing his final work extensively on fake news, misinformation and disinformation.
His research highlighted the importance of identifying and accessing credible sources of information within small island societies such as St. Maarten.
Following their work, both Cooks and Nicolaas were awarded scholarships for the next UNESCO course.
The upcoming training will focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), including job training programmes, workforce planning and preparing students for modern digital and green jobs.
Marcellia Henry, SG-UNESCO, congratulated both Cooks and Nicolaas for their hard work and dedication to improving local education.
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