Trinidad and Tobago Education Minister Calls Caribbean Union Delegates to Lead with Love
Bringing greetings on behalf of the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister, who was unable to attend due to matters of state, Dr. Dowlath reflected on the session theme, "Committed to Discipleship, Compelled by Love," and its connection to 1 Corinthians 16:14: "Do everything in love." He challenged delegates
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Dr. the Honourable Michael R. Dowlath, keynote speaker during the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Union Conference's 18th Session on July 22, 2026.
MARACAS VALLEY, Trinidad — "Commitment gives discipleship discipline. Love gives discipleship purpose... People are the purpose." Those words framed the keynote address delivered by Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of Education, Dr. the Honourable Michael R. Dowlath, during the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Union Conference's 18th Session on July 22, 2026.
Bringing greetings on behalf of the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister, who was unable to attend due to matters of state, Dr. Dowlath reflected on the session theme, "Committed to Discipleship, Compelled by Love," and its connection to 1 Corinthians 16:14: "Do everything in love." He challenged delegates to ensure that love is not merely an ideal but the guiding principle behind every discussion, decision, and act of service.
Dr. Dowlath commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its commitment to ministering to the whole person through education, healthcare, and community outreach. He highlighted the Church's recent Eye Care Mission, which provided free cataract and pterygium surgeries for more than 3,000 individuals, as an example of faith expressed through practical service.
The minister also emphasized the vital role the Church continues to play in the lives of young people by providing purpose, belonging, and positive direction amid increasing societal pressures. Reflecting on his own involvement in the University of the Southern Caribbean's accreditation process while serving as Chairman of the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago from 2010 to 2015, he described the institution as an enduring influence on generations of Caribbean youth.
Dr. Dowlath observed that the holistic philosophy of education embraced by the Seventh-day Adventist Church is a principle shared by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. Citing Ellen G. White's description of true education as "the harmonious development of the physical, mental, and spiritual," he said the longstanding partnership has helped strengthen communities and contribute to national development.
In closing, Dr. Dowlath challenged delegates to keep three questions at the forefront of every decision as the Caribbean Union Conference celebrates its centennial and prepares to elect new leadership: "What must we preserve? What must we improve? And who must we prepare for the next 100 years?" His appeal served as a reminder that faithful leadership honors the past while preparing the Church for the future.