WILLEMSTAD – The Department of Public Schools (DOS) has kicked off the 2025/2026 academic year in a unique and memorable way, hosting an inspirational opening conference under the theme “DOS in Balance: The People and the Content.”
More than 800 education professionals – including teachers, school leaders, and support staff – gathered for a full day of knowledge-sharing, connection, and motivation. The event featured over 30 speakers across 20 special venues in Skarloo, with local organizations opening their doors to host interactive workshops. These sessions provided fresh perspectives and practical tools to help educators navigate the new school year.
A dynamic start
The day began with a spectacular opening session at DOS headquarters, where a virtual MC interacted with a live MC to energize the audience through music, humor, and inspirational words. The interactive format brought the conference theme to life, setting the tone for a day filled with new perspectives and collaboration.
Participants then joined smaller breakout groups, attending workshops ranging from subject-specific content development to deep personal growth. Special emphasis was placed on language teaching as a key to ensuring equal educational opportunities in Curaçao’s multilingual environment.
More than knowledge-sharing
With this opening conference, DOS highlighted that professional development is not only about knowledge and skills, but also about connection, inspiration, and recognition for those who make a difference in classrooms every day.
“Today we experienced together the power of learning beyond familiar places and connecting with one another,” said DOS Director Nihayra Leona. “Thanks to the support of our partners and the hospitality of so many organizations, we were able to start our school year in balance, with energy and a shared mission.”
Education as the foundation for the future
The DOS 2025 opening conference was not just a day of learning, but also a celebration of education as the foundation for the island’s future—starting with inspired and motivated teaching professionals.
