(1) For the purpose of the performance of the functions under this Act, the Minister shall have power to—
(a) require attendance of persons of compulsory school age at schools established and conducted under this Act;
(b) regulate the operation of public schools, assisted schools, and private educational institutions;
(c) make provision for the professional training of teachers for the entire system of education, and lay down standards which are applicable to the recruitment of teachers, their training, professional development and conditions of service;
(d) designate the grades or classes and special programmes to be offered in public schools and assisted schools;
(e) prescribe forms and notices as required for the administration of this Act;
(f) constitute committees or other bodies to offer advice on educational and related matters;
(g) prescribe lists of textbooks and practices in all public schools and assisted schools so as to ensure conformity with national standards of education except that in the case of assisted schools textbooks for religious education shall be determined by the denomination establishing the school;
(h) determine the level of assistance to assisted schools and regulate such assistance;
(i) establish or disestablish public schools including schools for technical education and inaugurate classes or discontinue classes in those schools when necessary;
(j) prescribe, in accordance with this Act, a curriculum for public schools and assisted schools; and
(k) provide for any other matter or do all things as may be expedient for the carrying out of the Minister's responsibilities for education and training.
(2) In the exercise of the powers conferred by subsection (1)(c), (1)(g) and (1)(j), the Minister shall consult such organisations representing the teaching profession as the Minister considers appropriate.