Marie Levens

Maria Elizabeth (Marie) Levens (born 13 July 1950) is a politician who held the post of Foreign Minister of Suriname for five years (2000–2005). On 16 July 2020, Levens became the Minister of Education, Science & Culture.

Biography Levens first studied at the Pedagogical Institute in Suriname, continued to study at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and received her doctorate from the University of Amsterdam. In 1977, she returned to Suriname to teach at the Pedagogical Institute.

After having worked in education she joined the board of the Anton de Kom University of Suriname She had worked at the OAS for 10 years, and started three educational programs.

In 1993 she founded the Progressieve Vrouwen Unie (Progressive Women Union).

In 2000 she became the first woman to be the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Suriname. She served until 2005. In 2015, Levens became International Program Manager for the World and Regional Development Banks.

On 16 July 2020, Levens became the Minister of Education, Science & Culture in the cabinet of Santokhi.

Honours Levens hold an honorary doctorate from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.