An education boss from overseas is likely to be appointed to help implement recommendations from a damning report into why so many of Bermuda’s students are failing.

Education Minister Randy Horton last night told the House of Assembly about seven people “of the highest calibre” had already been in contact with Government for the position, which he described as a CEO.

He said it would be a consultative role and would last for a maximum of two years.

“We are looking at someone who has worn the T-shirt many times,” said the Minister.

“The person selected to be the CEO will be one who is well versed in being able to galvanise all stakeholders, in moving initiatives forward.”

Mr. Horton was speaking as a motion was moved to appoint a joint select committee — comprising Progressive Labour Party and United Bermuda Party members — to consider, review and report on the suggestions in Professor David Hopkins’ review into the state of education on the Island.

“The most important person is going to be this CEO that we bring in,” said Mr. Horton.

“Already, we have been in contact with something like seven or so people. All are of the highest calibre, people who are world-renowned in education reform. We are not going to settle for anything but the best.”

Earlier in the debate, Opposition MPs Grant Gibbons — the Shadow Education Minister — and John Barritt, had called for the public to be given access to the meetings of the joint select committee. They both questioned what role such a committee could play when there is an interim executive board has already been implementing Prof. Hopkins’ recommendations for several weeks.

Dr. Gibbons and Mr. Barritt both backed the principle of the move to set up a joint select committee. The motion was passed.