LAWYER, DOCTOR OR ENGINEER

Lawyer, Doctor, or an Engineer
Acrylic on Canvas
 
A deep-rooted cultural emphasis on higher education, particularly in fields like law, medicine, and engineering, can be traced back to several factors, mainly colonial legacy.
The artwork portrays a parent diligently assisting their children with homework, illuminated by the soft glow of expensive kerosene lamps. This serves as a poignant symbol of the sacrifices made by parents to ensure their children's education and future.
 
It's important to note that the Caribbean community has strong ties to African cultures, where education holds great value. The legacy of African diasporic values continues to influence Caribbean cultural priorities, stressing the importance of knowledge and community development. Additionally, there are significant populations of Indian and Chinese descendants in the Caribbean, who have also brought cultural values that emphasize education and hard work.
 
The migration of many Caribbean people to the US, UK, and other countries in search of better opportunities has further solidified the belief that education is crucial for securing a better future for themselves and their children.
 
Here, we are reminded of the enduring belief that education is crucial for securing a better future, a belief that has been passed down through generations and continues to shape the aspirations and priorities of the Caribbean community.
During colonial times, education was viewed as the key to social mobility and economic advancement. Colonial powers emphasized education as a means to create a local elite to support their administrative and economic interests.
 
After gaining independence, many Caribbean nations placed a high priority on education to develop human capital and secure a more prosperous future. This led to significant investments in education infrastructure, and parents began to view education as a pathway to a better life for their children. As a result, there was a strong insistence on pursuing careers in fields like law, medicine, and engineering.