No 31/12 -BD May 21, 2012 The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is to provide a Technical Assistance loan equivalent to USD2 million to the Government of Belize to finance an Education Sector Reform Project. The objective of the Project is enhanced learning outcomes across all levels of the education sector. A grant of USD 90,000 for consultancy services also forms part of the financial assistance package. Ultimately, the project will have an impact on enhancing the human capital in Belize and contribute to poverty reduction. The proposed Project is the first phase of a comprehensive development programme as envisaged under the Education Sector Study (2011-2016), which was developed with funding from CDB. It responds to the more critical challenges in the sector which have resulted in low participation rates and performance standards at all levels. The project focuses on three key policy objectives: (i) strengthened governance of the sector; (ii) improved quality and relevance of education; and (iii) increased equitable access. CDB's resources will assist the Government to effectively and efficiently execute all the activities associated with the reform of the education sector. The Project will provide an enhanced regulatory and institutional framework for the delivery of, and access to, quality education. This project will not only support the development of the regulatory environment, but also contribute to the implementation of school improvement and management activities, which will empower school communities to address access to quality education.