The history of Aruba needs to be given its place in the island’s classrooms, parliamentarian Xiomara Maduro said at the University of Aruba, where she attended the presentation of the research ‘Verzwegen Verhalen’ (Silenced Stories) on the teaching of the history of slavery, colonialism and resistance in the Caribbean part of the Dutch Kingdom, Diario reported on November 13.
During the presentation, researcher Kenny Meyers shared the findings of the investigation, while Jan Bant presented recommendations. An important conclusion, according to Diario, is that pupils want to know their own history, but teachers do not always have sufficient preparation and educational material.
A call heard since 1977
The researchers stressed that the problem is not new. As far back as 1977, the teachers’ union SIMAR was already calling attention to the teaching of local history in the magazine School & Komunidat, issue 9. Almost 50 years later, the same challenges still exist.
Four priorities for Aruba
Maduro said it is time to move from recommendations to concrete action, and she emphasised four priorities for Aruba arising from the research: more local research, stimulating the study of Aruba’s history by Aruban historians; Aruban teaching material on the island’s history, culture, slavery and resistance; teacher training, with refresher courses and stronger local training in history; and joining forces, with the government, the University of Aruba, the National Archive, the National Library, the Department of Education and the education sector establishing an action plan with responsibilities and a concrete timetable.
“Our children must know not only world history, but also the history of their own people,” Maduro said, according to Diario. “After almost 50 years of recommendations, it is time to join forces and do the work.” She congratulated the researchers and the University of Aruba on the initiative, emphasising that Aruba’s history deserves a permanent place in the island’s education.
Source: Diario (November 13, 2026)
