The Government continues to transform the country’s health sector in a bid to further enhance service delivery to more Jamaicans.

This is being done through infrastructural upgrades, acquisition of critical and modern pieces of equipment, training and provision of scholarships, and the introduction of new technology for the digitisation of health records, which helps with efficiency and better patient management.

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, highlighted these during Wednesday’s (January 22) opening ceremony for the health and wellness career exposition and employment fair at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus in St. Andrew.

He said infrastructural upgrades are being done to increase the physical capacity at several institutions islandwide, including the Cornwall Regional Hospital, Spanish Town Hospital and University Hospital of the West Indies as well as several type five clinics.

“Until those come to fruition, many persons are still going to be saying we have an access issue, we don’t have enough space. But these are being built. They will come to fruition, [and] you will see a massive improvement in the ability of the health facilities to host patients,” the Prime Minister said.

Dr. Holness further noted that the introduction of modern equipment is being incorporated in the sector through public-private partnerships.

He maintained, however, that critical to the transformation process, is building the human capacity to deliver care.

“We can improve the infrastructure, we can improve the facilities. But to get the care [needed] in health, we have to build the human capacity, and that is what today (Wednesday’s expo) is about in the transformation exercise.

It’s about, now, building the human capacity to allow us to actually deliver care,” the Prime Minister said.

Dr. Holness urged persons who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare to take advantage of the opportunities available in the sector.

Additionally, he appealed for greater compassion and patience, even as the Government continues to transform the sector.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth & Information, Dr. Kasan Troupe, interacts with the audience while addressing the Ministry’s Transforming Education for National Development (TREND) School Pop-Up on Thursday (January 23) at Glenmuir High School in Clarendon.

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth & Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon shares a light moment with students from Dinthill Technical High School in St. Catherine, which won the 2024 edition of the ‘All Together Sing’ high school choir competition.  The occasion was a courtesy call by the competition’s top three teams at the Student Assessment Unit Training Room, Caenwood Centre in Kingston on Thursday, (January 23). Central High School in Clarendon finished second, with St. Jago High School, also from St. Catherine, placing third.

The Grade 7 Academy, which has been operational at Holy Trinity High School in Kingston since September, is already reporting progress in student performance.

The programme, spearheaded by St. Michael’s College in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, offers an adjusted curriculum focused on remedial reading, writing and numeracy.

Student *Anthony Brown, who is enrolled in the Academy, scored 37 per cent in decoding and 22 per cent in comprehension on his first Reading Progress Indicator (RPI) at the start of the 2024/25 academic year.

After engaging with the curriculum for four months, *Anthony’s performance on the RPI moved to 45 per cent for decoding and 38 per cent in comprehension.

On the Informal Diagnostic Reading Inventory (IDRI), he scored as a primer in September and by December, he was at the grade two level.

Another student *Joel Black, scored 27 per cent in comprehension and zero per cent in decoding, on his first RPI and below pre-primer on the IDRI. By December, *Joel’s score on the RPI improved and he was at the grade one level on the IDRI.

An assessment of the cohort’s reading levels in December found that over 52 per cent of students have improved by at least half of a grade level.

Another 11 per cent showed improvement between 0.6 and 1.5 grade levels and a further 12 per cent improving over 1.5 grade levels and above.

There were also encouraging results in mathematics.

Instructional Leader, Dr. Faith Alexander, shared that the original mathematics diagnostic test in September 2024 was set at the grade-six level, but none of the students were able to engage with the assessment as they could not read the word problems or comprehend what was being asked of them.

“We had to then reassess with a fourth-grade instrument. Of the 170 students, 143 completed the math diagnostic test. Sixty-eight students scored between zero and 23; 45 students scored between 24 and 29; 28 students scored between 30 and 38; and only two students scored between 39 and 60,” she said of the assessment which was graded out of 100.

She noted that 78 per cent of students fell in the critical non-mastery category at the time.

“We are now seeing that the non-mastery category has been significantly reduced with now only 30 per cent of the students falling in that category,” Dr. Alexander said.

“While these are very early results, we are extremely pleased and excited but cautiously optimistic that our students will continue to improve in both their literacy and numeracy skills over the period of this intervention,” she shared.

The students’ progress is attributed to smaller class sizes with no more than 20 students and the use of technology, among other things.

“We have, with the Ministry’s permission, scaled back the curriculum. Students have two blocks of 90-minutes each of uninterrupted language arts and math. They also have an additional 40 minutes daily on the software Fast ForWord for language arts and ClearMath for mathematics,” Dr. Alexander said.

The objective of the Grade 7 Academy is to ensure that, by the end of the school year, a minimum 70 per cent of students are brought up to at least grade-six literacy and numeracy standards, attaining the proficiency required to engage with the traditional high-school curriculum in their second year.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dr. Kasan Troupe, said 2025 is set to be a transformative year, marked by good relations, professional growth and fiscal accountability.

In her New Year’s message, she pointed out that the Ministry is focusing on increased efficiency through the integration of information and communications technology (ICT) aligned to the transformation agenda.

Key initiatives include the automation of critical operational processes such as pension management, staff recruitment, and the evaluation of teacher qualifications, which will improve service delivery and alleviate long-standing challenges.

Initiatives to be rolled out in 2025 include the highly anticipated Education Management Information System (EMIS), aimed at enhancing the tracking of student performance, attendance and behaviour.

According to Dr. Troupe, the EMIS is more than just a technological upgrade; it is a commitment to fostering excellence in education.

Additionally, several divisions within the Ministry are collaborating towards efficiency and accountability, including the Planning and Development Division, the Division of School Services, the National School Improvement Team, and the Corporate Services Division.

Their collective efforts reflect the Ministry’s dedication to creating a resilient and responsive educational environment, Dr. Troupe noted.

“Transformation requires courage and the willingness to step beyond our comfort zones. We will uphold the culture of care, excellence and service that defines the Ministry and continue to make a difference,” she said.

The Permanent Secretary described 2024 as a remarkable year for the Ministry, characterised by courage, resilience, and significant achievements.

She commended her staff for their selfless commitment, which has been the cornerstone of the Ministry’s success.

“Despite facing uncertainties and the high demands of our stakeholders, you met every challenge with grace and determination. The growing confidence from the public in our work is a testament to your tireless efforts,” she said.

The Ministry is committed to formulating and implementing policies that advance education and youth initiatives in Jamaica. It continually works to deliver a high-quality educational experience that empowers students and cultivates a culture of excellence.

The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information is applauding ZED Jamaica Technologies and its partners for their unwavering commitment and support to advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the country.

“Your dedication has been pivotal in shaping a generation of thinkers, innovators and problem-solvers. As we work towards a more agile and impactful education system, STEM remains a focus of vision,” said Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, in a speech delivered at the second annual ZED Jamaica Technologies conference, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on January 7.

Dr. Morris Dixon’s speech was read by Deputy Chief Education Officer, Core Curriculum and Support Services, Winnie Berry.

“Guided by our Prime Minister’s declaration of Jamaica as a STEM island, we are creating learning environments that nurture proficiency in STEM disciplines and inspire innovation to drive economic growth,” the Minister said.

She noted that ZED Jamaica Technologies has proven to be an invaluable ally in the mission and congratulated them on their 21 years in operation.

“You supported the robotics agenda by hosting the inaugural ZED Technologies conference and a summer robotics camp that inspired countless students, even amidst the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl. Your unwavering dedication has left a lasting impact on students and teachers, providing a strong foundation in STEM education,” the Minister said.

She pointed out that robotics and STEM education are no longer concepts of tomorrow, noting that they are the tools shaping the present, driving creativity, and unlocking boundless opportunities for students and teachers.

The Minister said that the Ministry has taken two approaches in ensuring Jamaica becomes a STEM island.

“We have our content, our STEM subjects, but also we utilise STEM methodology, problem-solving, critical thinking right across the curriculum,” she added.

Furthermore, she pointed out that the Ministry’s recent STEM in school pilot programmes, conducted in collaboration with partners, have further demonstrated the immense potential of this approach.

“Students are eager to learn, and teachers are embracing new challenges to refine and expand curriculum deployment to ensure sustained success,” the Minister said.

She noted, too, that the Ministry recognises the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing and enhancing learning.

Dr. Morris Dixon argued that the flexibility and willingness of school administrators to adapt to the evolving educational landscape are critical.

“Together we can ensure that our students are not only excelling in robotics but also thriving in any STEM specialisation area they choose to pursue. If we provide the right kind of environment for creativity in our schools and the wider community, we could well see a whole mindset shift and an economy that is booming,” she said.

Chairman, ZED Technologies Jamaica, Carlton Grant, reminded persons that upskilling is essential.

During the conference, approximately 100 students and teachers from schools across the country received certificates through a partnership with ZED Jamaica and Zebra Robotics.

One thousand five hundred OneTab Tablets have been donated to early-childhood institutions across Jamaica by the Project for the Advancement of Childhood Education (PACE) Canada, in collaboration with local partners.

The devices, valued at US$88,400, were handed over during a ceremony held at Jamaica China Goodwill Infant School I in Kingston, on Tuesday (January 7).

Presentations were made to three of the 300 beneficiary institutions – Jamaica China Goodwill Infant School I, Jamaica House Basic School and Little Angels Early Childhood Development Centre.

The tablets are dedicated learning devices, which means there are no other applications on them and children cannot change any of the device settings.

The dual-powered tablets can be charged by electricity or solar and no internet connection is required.

In her remarks, Minister of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, underscored the importance of partnerships in education.

“The Government alone cannot do it. We have to have partners. We’re deeply grateful for the extraordinary contributions of PACE Canada, whose commitment and vision have continued to impact Jamaica’s early-childhood institutions. Your support is truly holistic in extending to the provision of education and security supplies, the development of infrastructure across many of our schools and playgrounds too, the professional development of our teachers, and importantly, modern technology. I thank you and salute you for that work,” Dr. Morris Dixon said.

She emphasised that play is critical for students at the early-childhood level and the tablets will promote learning through play.

“To our partners, please work hand in hand with us to create an education system that empowers our youngest learners, that nurtures their potential and lays the groundwork for a brighter, more equitable Jamaica,” Dr. Morris Dixon said.

The work of PACE Canada, a registered charitable foundation since 1987, is focused on enhancing the overall development of young children at the critical age of three to six years.

President, Diana Burke, shared that in its first phase, more than 900 tablets were donated under the Government’s One Laptop per Child Initiative, which was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“One of PACE’s mottos is helping young children succeed. We know these devices will be part of that process,” Mrs. Burke said.

Partners in the project include Barita Foundation, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, Doctor’s Cave, JPS Foundation, VM Foundation and author Marjorie Straw.

Executive Director of Barita Foundation, Tanketa Chance-Wilson, expressed gratitude to all the partners, highlighting the unique benefits of the OneTab devices.

“It can be used in different parts of the island where sometimes internet access is a challenge. Parents and teachers can feel comfortable to allow the children to use these tablets, because there is no internet access and the content is safe. Safe content in today’s world is so important because there is so much that children are often exposed to,” she said.

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, has encouraged students of Immaculate Conception High School in Kingston to explore careers of the future.

“You have to know where the world is going so that you can choose your majors wisely, because you want to be at the cutting edge of future. The future isn’t the traditional jobs that we know about,” she said.

Dr. Morris Dixon delivered the keynote address during the institution’s prize giving ceremony on Wednesday (December 18), under the theme ‘Channelling Our Franciscan Value: Embracing Change, Leading with Vision’.

She told the students that, “as we move forward into an era shaped by technology, global connectivity and new ideas, you have to embrace it.”

“Everything is changing around us – how we communicate, how we do business, how our environment interacts with us. Change has been the default. The question before all of you, including me, is whether or not you are ready for this change. How are you going to embrace all of this change that is happening?” the Minister posited.

The over 1,000 students who were recognised for their outstanding academic achievements during the ceremony were commended by Senator Morris Dixon, who extended, “congratulations to you for putting in the hard work.”

Meanwhile, the Minister encouraged their parents to nurture the other elements that are crucial to their success, including being good stewards of what God has blessed them with.

She shared her personal story of leaving Jamaica on a Fulbright Scholarship, pointing out that after completing her PhD, she could have chosen to work in any global firm or university, but, instead, returned home.

“I came back to Jamaica because I understood that I had been given something that a lot of others had not been given. Throughout our lives, we always have a responsibility to think [and explore] how am I [going to] pay it forward?” Dr. Morris Dixon stated.

The HEART/NSTA Trust has certified 60 employees of Ripton Infrastructure Limited in the areas of welding, carpentry, plumbing, drywall installation, masonry, tiling, electrical installation and maintenance.

The certification ceremony was held on Saturday (December 14), at a commercial complex located at 45 Hope Road in Kingston.

In her address, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, commended Ripton Infrastructure for the exemplary step it has taken in work force development.

“Today’s certification is a reflection of true corporate responsibility. Partnering with HEART/NSTA Trust to provide [workers] with on-the-job certification and opportunities to formalise their competence, both theoretical and practical, is not just an investment in them as individuals. What you are doing goes far beyond just your company. Your corporate investment is an investment in Jamaica’s economic future and social wellbeing,” she said.

Senator Morris Dixon noted that for Jamaica to thrive, its people must have access to the tools, opportunities and skills that allow them to shape their futures.

“I’m hoping that more corporates are going to follow [the example] Ripton Infrastructure,” she expressed.

Meanwhile, Dr. Morris Dixon urged the employees to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning.

“Look at what HEART has and see if you can continue upskilling yourself. The more pieces of paper and the more skills you have, means the more in demand you will be and the more money you can make,” she pointed out.

For his part, Manager of Ripton Infrastructure Limited, Ricardo Foster, said the company is committed to investing in its human capital.

“I remember vividly being summoned to a meeting by [the Executive Chairman], Ripton Rodgers, and he was very frustrated. He said to me “Ricardo, I’m trying to grow this company, but I can’t grow it without developing the workers,” he recounted.

Mr. Foster noted that one of the benefits of upskilling their company’s employees is to reduce the need to look externally for workers in the construction industry.

“We want our own people to be able to fill any gap, to be able to fill any role in the sector,” he said.

In a brief testimonial, Ripton Infrastructure team member Ramon Smith, expressed gratitude to his employer for the opportunity to become certified.

“This is a very wonderful programme. It gives an opportunity to persons who are capable of executing a certain skill but are not available to attend physical classes or even individuals, who are afraid of the theory, to achieve a certificate. I always wanted to acquire certification to support my career choice,” Mr. Smith said.

He added that he is now motivated to pursue certification at a higher level.