The Hurricane Melissa School Infrastructure Recovery and Resilience Oversight Committee has welcomed the progress made in restoring schools damaged by Hurricane Melissa.

For the reporting period, ending September 30, repairs at 144 of the 308 severely damaged schools have been completed or are near completion.

The Committee, in a press release, said that based on current projections, another 66 severely damaged schools are targeted to reach practical completion by December 2026.

The group highlighted that the recovery programme presents an opportunity to deliver better learning environments, stronger construction standards and resilient schools that can withstand future severe weather events.

“Education is fundamental to Jamaica’s development. Every day of disruption matters to a child. Our responsibility is to help ensure that recovery proceeds with urgency, without compromising safety or quality. The real measure of success will be schools that are not only restored but better equipped to serve our children and future generations,” the release said.

The Oversight Committee has, so far, visited eight schools in Westmoreland, namely, Darliston Primary School, Maud McLeod High School, Cokes View Primary School, Ferris Primary School, Belmont Academy, Unity Primary School, St. John’s Infant School and Enfield Primary and Infant.

During those visits, members engaged school administrators, teachers and contractors, observed construction progress and gained first-hand insight into the conditions under which teaching and learning are continuing.

The Committee shared that based on internal reviews and school visits, the scale and complexity of the repair programme are significant.

Works range from minor repairs and waterproofing to roof repairs involving materials such as zinc sheeting and purlins, extensive rehabilitation and, in some cases, substantial reconstruction.

“Our school visits have reinforced our deep appreciation for the extraordinary dedication of principals and teachers, who continue to put their students first, finding ways to sustain teaching and learning while their schools are being restored. We commend their leadership, resourcefulness and commitment to Jamaica’s children,” the release said.

The Committee advised that key areas requiring continued attention include the availability of construction materials, procurement and approval processes, contractor capacity, payment certification and the coordination of works across multiple sites.

“The safety and well-being of students, teachers and school personnel remain central to the recovery effort, particularly where construction continues during the academic year,” the release said.

Established in September 2026 for an initial one-year period, the Committee is tasked with providing an additional layer of accountability in the rehabilitation and repair of schools affected by the hurricane.