A total of 1,310 students, who will be sitting Information Technology in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exam and Computer Science in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), this year, will have their fees fully paid.

The NCB Foundation, through its CSEC/CAPE National Bursary Programme, has provided a grant of $7.8 million to subsidise the cost of these exams.

Chair of the Foundation, Thalia Lyn, handed over the cheque to Training and Client Relations Manager at the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC), Noleta Case, during a ceremony on Wednesday (March 19) at Immaculate Conception High School in St. Andrew.

Through the CSEC/CAPE National Bursary Programme, the NCB partners with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information and the OEC to cover the examination fees for select students in private and public schools across the island, who are pursuing IT and Computer Science at the CSEC and CAPE levels.

The objective is to ensure that the students meet the subject requirements for tertiary education or career advancement.

Deputy Chief Education Officer, Winnie Berry, who brought remarks on behalf of Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, highlighted the importance of the grant for the recipients.

“This occasion is an important one, as it marks not only the continued partnership… but also the deepening of our collective commitment to ensuring that our young people have the opportunity to excel,” she said.

She commended NCB Foundation for providing “a vital lifeline for those who need it most”.

The Foundation has invested more than $240 million in the bursary programme, since its inception in 2003, benefiting more than 109,000 students.

Adhering to its education mandate, the Foundation initially issued grants to students pursuing Principles of Business and Principles of Accounts but shifted its focus in 2022 to Information Technology and Computer Science, citing the changing digital world.

Mrs. Berry applauded the shift stating, “This initiative is particularly important as we navigate a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The future of our country depends on the skills and expertise of our young people, particularly in the field such as Information Technology and Computer Science.”

Additionally, she highlighted the Education Ministry’s commitment to give further assistance to students through the Transforming Education for National Development (TREND) programme, which is aimed at addressing key challenges within the sector and improving educational outcomes, while fostering national development.

“The combination of financial support and educational initiatives creates an environment in which our students are not only financially supported but are also given the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world,” Mrs. Berry said.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Lyn reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to the bursary programme, adding that it is an investment in the country’s future.

She went on to encourage students in attendance at the ceremony to keep their talents in Jamaica and contribute to the country’s development.

“Stay with us a little, help Jamaica to develop these [technological] industries. We have invested in you; we have great faith in you [and] we want you to help us carry it on. Pay it forward because that’s the only way we are going to build a better Jamaica,” she said.

Students at the St. Catherine-based José Martí Technical High School who have been recognised for achievements in academics, sports and other areas of school life, have emphasised the importance of hard work, motivation and support in their success.

For Chevaughn Johnson, who was named the top student for exceptional performance in academics, there were no shortcuts to success, crediting his accomplishments to dedicated studies.

“I always hear people say that the [journey] is the destination, but the process was extremely hard – studying after school, late at night – so it was an endless process,” he told JIS News at the recent awards ceremony held at the institution.

He noted that his parents, teachers, fellow students, as well as friends from other schools, pushed him towards success.

“We have this competition going on for a while now where we motivate and push each other,” he said, noting that they also share in his accomplishments.

Sports Girl of the Year, Ashawna Sibbles, who was recognised for outstanding performance and dedication to the netball team, said she was shocked but proud at the honour.

She noted the importance of students engaging in sports for their mental wellness.

“It gives us a better mental state even when you are going through something. Sports help me through my daily life because after a full day at school, I can turn to sports to release that stress or anxiety that I have been through,” she said.

Ashawna hailed her fellow team members and encouraged them to continue to work hard.

“We all have talent. Continue to give your dedicated time to the sport and I know most of us… will reach far in life, as in making a Jamaica team, or branching off to whatever we want as our goal,” she said.

Chayanne Daley, who received a trophy for outstanding performance in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), told JIS News that staying focused and disciplined are key ingredients in achieving academic excellence.

She said there “there must be a determined effort not to give up” when things become challenging.

“Have faith in yourself. At one point… I did not want to go to school, but eventually, I picked myself up and pushed through,” she related to JIS News.

The budding medical doctor credited her parents for standing with her during the difficult periods, and the teachers who motivated her.

“Thanks for having faith in me,” she expressed.

For students facing similar doubts in their abilities, Chayanne urged them “not to give up and keeping studying even though you don’t like to study and read, read, and read”.

More than 800 primary and secondary institutions across Jamaica are set to benefit from a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Education in Schools Programme over the next three years.

The GB£1.7-million programme is an initiative of the British Council, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, e-Learning Jamaica Limited, National Education Trust (NET) and Micro:bit Educational Foundation.

Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, described the programme as a critical cross-agency and bilateral partnership, noting that the Government cannot achieve its goal of becoming a STEAM country by walking the journey alone.

She was delivering the keynote address during the initiative’s launch on Wednesday (March 19) at AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston.

Senator Morris Dixon noted the targeted focus on teachers in the programme, pointing out that in order to transform Jamaica and its education system, the educators’ capacity to deliver high-quality STEAM instruction must be strengthened.

“We expect, through this project, to have over 10,000 teachers trained in STEAM education. Also, 1,350 master STEAM teachers will… be trained, and there will be some courses that will be done online and offline. Over 7,000 primary-school teachers will also be receiving hands-on training,” she outlined.

Dr. Morris Dixon shared that e-Learning Jamaica will continue to outfit schools with laptop, desktop and tablet computers, and interactive panels and projectors to support the programme.

Approximately 32,000 programmable micro:bit devices will be distributed to primary-level students, providing them with valuable opportunities to engage in hands-on coding and digital creation.

For her part, British Council Caribbean Regional Director, Americas, Joanna Burke, said the organisation is committed to bridging divides, promoting understanding and creating opportunities that empower individuals and societies.

“Today’s launch is not just another programme. It’s about deepening our commitment to education, to young people and to the future of Jamaica. STEAM represents the skills and knowledge that will define the future by adapting to the growing need for a world and workforce equipped with 21st century skills, and they empower students to think critically, to solve problems creatively and to innovate boldly,” Mrs. Burke said.

She underscored that in a world where technology is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, all countries must ensure that their young people are not just participants in the global shift but leaders of it.

“Integrating STEAM into the curriculum will not only enhance the quality of education but also prepare students for the careers that will drive Jamaica’s economic growth and global competitiveness,” Mrs. Burke stated.

Principal of Old Harbour Primary School in St. Catherine, George Goode, has welcomed the implementation of the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) $89.2-million Safe Passage Project at the institution, anticipating a significant enhancement of student safety.

The contract for the project, which falls under the 10th cycle of the Caribbean Development Bank-funded Basic Needs Trust Fund, was signed on Tuesday (February 11) at the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information in Kingston.

The scope of works includes construction of rails, sidewalks, erection of signage and construction of bus sheds to shield students from the elements as they await transportation at the end of the school day.

“Our school is benefiting from a Safe Passage Programme, and that is simply because we have had a number of experiences over the years where our students have been hit by vehicles on the road.

It’s a very good stretch of road that we’re on, and so what has been happening is that the drivers… and bikers… tend to speed on the road,” Mr. Goode told JIS News.

He also highlighted challenges with indiscipline, noting that students are sometimes not well organised on the road and do not use it wisely.

“Thankfully, we have not had any deaths on the road. What this project is going to do is to prevent that from happening and ensure that the near misses don’t even happen again,” Mr. Goode said.

He further told JIS News that, “the Safe Passage Project will also incorporate the whole matter of building new vendors’ stalls that will be at the side of the school; so, the students won’t have a need now to go across the road, which would put them in danger”, adding that the project is intended to improve road safety education.

“We are really grateful, as a school, for this project that will not only benefit the students but, indeed, it will benefit the community. We just want to say thanks to JSIF and the Caribbean Development Bank for this wonderful partnership with our school,” Mr. Goode said.

The HEART/NSTA Trust, through training and certification, is positioning Jamaicans to meet the global demand for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)-based careers, which is anticipated to grow significantly in the coming years.

Managing Director of the Trust, Dr. Taneisha Ingleton, said a report from international market research and consulting company, Grand View Research, indicates that the global technical and vocational education market was valued at approximately US$812 billion in 2024, and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 10 per cent from 2025 to 2030.

She noted that the world of work is changing rapidly, and new skills are emerging to meet the demands of the future.

The agency is offering training in fields like robotics and digital welding to ensure that individuals are equipped to meet the challenges of the future and contribute to both personal and national growth.

“By aligning its work with Vision 2030, the Trust aims to meet the needs of the industries, ensuring that individuals are equipped to fill critical roles. This is to advance national development but also demonstrates our commitment to human development,” Dr. Ingleton said.

She was speaking at the launch of National Career Awareness Week 2025 under the theme ‘Career Success through Self-Development’, at the Meadowbrook United Church in St. Andrew.

The week of observance, from February 9 to 14, is organised by the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information in collaboration with the HEART/NSTA Trust, Junior Achievement Jamaica and CHOICES.

Parents and teachers are being urged to utilise the transformative power of the arts in cultivating peace, discipline and youth empowerment in schools.

Director of the Safety and Security in Schools Unit in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Richard Troupe, in making the call, said that “the arts, whether visual art, music, dance, drama or creative writing, offer a powerful avenue for promoting peace and discipline”.

“They provide a safe space for young people to express emotions. The arts allow us to channel complex emotions like anger, frustration or sadness into constructive ways. Painting, writing or playing music are very helpful to process difficult experiences and find inner peace. The arts also build empathy,” he pointed out.

Mr. Troupe was bringing greetings on behalf of Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Honourable Dana Morris Dixon, at the Region 6 Deans of Dicipline Youth Forum and Symposium on Wednesday (February 12) at the Cumberland High School in St Catherine, under the theme ‘Cultivating a Culture of Peace’.

Championing the power of the arts, Mr. Troupe charged parents to support their children’s creative expressions and encourage them to use the medium as a means of communication and self-discovery.

He also reminded parents that they are their children’s first teachers, and as such, the onus is on them to impart important values before they enter society.

“Instil values of respect, tolerance and peaceful conflict resolution; this starts at home. Open communication, active listening and modelling positive behaviour are crucial,” Mr. Troupe said.

As for teachers, he challenged them to integrate the arts into the classroom as a tool for exploring emotions, building empathy and promoting understanding where there are differences.

Mr. Troupe’s message to students was for them to use the arts to cultivate an environment of peace in schools, where diversity is celebrated and inclusivity is promoted.

“Use your voices through the arts to express your concerns, shape your experiences and inspire positive change,” he encouraged.

President of the Region 6 Deans of Discipline and President of the National Association of Deans of Discipline, Dr. Rene Levell, in his remarks, said that cultivating peace is a personal decision that ultimately affects schools and the wider community.

“The aim of this youth forum and symposium is for you (students) to be champions of change [and] as we continue our journey to cultivate a culture of peace, let us remember that it starts with us. Peace begins in our hearts [and] extends to our whole school, flourishes within our churches, communities, and ultimately impacts the world,” Dr. Levell stated.

Member of Parliament (MP) for South Central St. Catherine, Dr. Andrew Wheatley, who delivered the main address, applauded the Region 6 Deans of Discipline for recognising the importance of addressing peace, especially within schools.

“I believe that if students have an appreciation for the whole concept of peace that we will have not only better communities but better families because, oftentimes, they can instruct and advise their parents, and grandparents, cousins and uncles as to why we need to take a softer approach to settle our differences,” he contended.

The first of its kind for Region 6, the youth forum and symposium included a panel discussion where students explored the effects of bullying and cyberbullying and how these can be prevented in schools with help from teachers and administrators.

The event doubled as an awards ceremony for a poster competition, where students were invited to create artwork on the topic ‘Promoting Peace and Discipline in Schools by Empowering Youth Through the Arts’.

Thirteen schools in St. Catherine entered the competition and their work was placed on display to be viewed by those in attendance.

José Martí High School emerged the winner, with Cumberland High School and Bridgeport High School placing second and third, respectively.

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.

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.