Teachers at Lawrence Tavern Primary School were honoured with digital devices and classroom technology during a Teachers’ Day celebration, held on the school grounds in St. Andrew on Wednesday (May 6).

Thirty-six teachers at the institution received laptops courtesy of the Flow Foundation, while the school was presented with a BlackPoint smartboard through a partnership involving BlackPoint and Imperial Appliances.

Speaking at the handover, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, said the celebration served as an opportunity to recognise the important role teachers play in shaping the nation’s children.

The Minister said members of the Ministry team were able to visit classrooms and interact with students during the Teachers’ Day activities, noting that they saw “the best of Jamaica” through the work being done at the institution.

“When you go around the classrooms and you interact with the students, you see the best of Jamaica and it’s that way because of the teachers and the leadership of this institution,” she said.

Dr. Morris Dixon underscored that partnerships remain critical to improving the education system, noting that the Government welcomes support from corporate Jamaica.

“We can’t do education without partners,” the Minister said, while thanking BlackPoint and Imperial Appliances for supporting schools with smartboards and other resources.

She noted that the company is distributing 250 smartboards across the education system, with Lawrence Tavern Primary School being the first institution to benefit under the initiative.

“They’ve also said they’ll help us in other ways so we’re going to be expanding this partnership,” the Minister added.

Dr. Morris Dixon also expressed gratitude to the Flow Foundation for providing the teachers with laptops, explaining that the Ministry wanted to do something special for the educators in recognition of their dedication and service.

“We wanted to do something special for the teachers at Lawrence Tavern Primary… because they deserve it and it’s the least we could do,” she said.

The Minister pointed out that while the Ministry already has a programme to provide laptops for teachers, the devices presented during the Teachers’ Day celebration were intended as gifts to show appreciation to the staff.

Executive Director of the Flow Foundation, Rhys Campbell, said the organisation was pleased to support educators who continue to shape the lives of Jamaican children.

“Today…we’re giving 36 teachers brand-new laptops. We’re really excited about this because this is an opportunity for us to recognise the people who are changing the lives of our children and Jamaicans on a whole,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer, BlackPoint and Imperial Appliances, Gul Mansukhani, said the company decided to assist schools after many educational institutions sustained damage during Hurricane Melissa.

He said the company imported 500 smartboards for schools across Jamaica, with 250 being handed over to the Ministry of Education for distribution to schools islandwide.

“The other 250 I personally will go and hand over to some of the schools in a couple months to come before September,” Mr. Mansukhani told JIS News.

He added that the initiative forms part of the company’s commitment to supporting education and helping schools recover following the hurricane.

For her part, Principal of Lawrence Tavern Primary School, Marlene Davis-Fairweather, described the occasion as a memorable and uplifting Teachers’ Day celebration for the school community.

“Today was really a wonderful Teachers’ Day here, as our school was chosen by the Minister and the team from Region One to share and celebrate our teachers here,” she said.

“Our teachers are really dedicated, hard-working teachers and have made an invaluable contribution to our community,” the Principal added.

Mrs. Davis-Fairweather said the laptops and smartboard will enhance teaching and learning at the institution.

Norwich Primary and Buff Bay Primary schools will compete for top honours in the final of the Portland Mathematics Quiz Competition on Thursday, May 7, at the Social Development Commission (SDC) Portland Parish Office at 9:30 a.m.

Ahead of the final, Boundbrook Primary and Mount Pleasant Primary will contest the third-place play-off.

The final marks the culmination of a parish-wide academic initiative that has engaged more than 30 primary schools across East and West Portland over the past four months.

The winner of the competition will walk away with the Championship trophy as well as various gift certificates and book vouchers. Additionally, top-performing students will also receive awards.

Now in its fifth year, the competition, which is implemented through a partnership involving the SDC, the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MOESYI), and the Norwich Community Development Committee (CDC), has established itself as a key programme promoting numeracy and critical thinking among students.

This year’s competition was held under the Mathematics Month theme, ‘Maths for All: Building Communities, Confidence, Competence, and Creativity’.

Participants engaged in written assessments, problem-solving exercises and live quiz rounds, aimed at improving computational fluency, conceptual understanding and critical-thinking skills. The programme also supports the national effort of the Ministry to improve student performance and engagement in numeracy.

Director of Corporate Communications and Public Relations at the SDC, Mandel McKulsky, said the competition underscores the importance of Mathematics in national development.

“We are pleased with the level of participation and the performance of the students throughout the competition. It demonstrates the value of engaging young people in meaningful educational activities that build confidence and problem-solving skills,” he said.

Mr. McKulsky added that the initiative reflects the SDC’s continued commitment to youth development and community transformation through education and partnerships.

He noted that similar programmes are being planned for other communities.

“More than 50 communities are targeted for similar youth-focused activities, and programmes are scheduled to take place across Jamaica during the remainder of the year, reinforcing the Commission’s investment in building the confidence, creativity, and leadership potential of young people nationwide,” he informed.

The final is expected to attract students, educators, parents and community stakeholders as the parish recognises academic achievement and collaboration in advancing education.

The competition has received support from community leaders, elected representatives and private-sector organisations.

Students are being encouraged to serve as ambassadors of peace, promoting and practising peaceful conflict resolution among their peers.

This charge was delivered by Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Marlon Morgan, during the handover ceremony for a 2026 Toyota Coaster bus donated to Port Antonio Primary School in Portland on April 28.

“We want you to be safe. We want you to grow up and, ultimately, become productive adults in Jamaica. What that means is that… you, too, have to ensure that you are well-behaved and responsible. So if you are in class or if you are in the schoolyard or out on the streets and you see two other boys and girls or whichever number of them having a dispute and you can step in and just usher a calm and appropriate word that will cause the two warring factions to not go down the route of escalating into violence, I’m imploring you to do so,” he said.

Senator Morgan voiced concern over the troubling trend of individuals recording or photographing disputes for distribution across social media platforms.

“We are seeking, as a country, to have more peace prevalent among us as opposed to violent and antisocial behaviour. So when you see the potential for violence emerging, play your part in ensuring that that is diminished and brought to an end. That is why it is important for you to be ambassadors of peace and step up in that regard,” the Parliamentary Secretary further stated.

He also encouraged students to report disputes to adults, such as their teachers or other staff members, to ensure conflicts are addressed appropriately.

“Embrace that posture of peace and escalate to appropriate authority figures any matter that need to be brought to their attention, rather than taking matters into your own hands and seeking to settle them on your own,” Senator Morgan said.

Pointing out that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, Senator Morgan noted that disputes and disagreements are a natural part of human interaction.

He emphasised, however, that what truly matters is how individuals resolve these disputes, utilising appropriate channels to achieve peaceful outcomes.

Teachers from the parishes of Manchester and St. Elizabeth, who were severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, have benefited from an $800,000 donation from Inova Solutions Jamaica, to assist with recovery efforts.

The support, facilitated by the National Education Trust (NET), is aimed at helping the educators rebuild and return to normalcy following the devastation caused by the storm.

It formed part of a broader effort to restore stability within the education sector in the aftermath of the hurricane, which has disrupted lives, damaged homes, and forced the temporary closure of several schools.

Executive Director of NET, Latoya Harris-Ghartey, in her address at the recent handing over ceremony held at Bethany Primary School in Manchester, said that while teachers are receiving the support, it is the students who will reap the long-term benefits.

“Teachers are the ones we entrust with our children every day, and their impact extends far beyond the classroom. This initiative recognises the importance of supporting them, especially in times of hardship, so that they can continue to provide the guidance and inspiration that students need,” she pointed out.

Country Manager for Inova Solutions Jamaica, Kiefa Gay Sandcroft, in her remarks, said that the company’s decision to assist was immediate once the extent of the hurricane damage became clear.

“When the call came, there was no debate,” she said.

“Communities were hurting, families were displaced, livelihoods were disrupted, and schools were closed. In moments like these, what matters most is action,” she pointed out.

She noted that the contribution, while it may seem modest, reflects the company’s commitment to supporting national recovery and standing in solidarity with those in need.

Miss Sandcroft said that Inova Solutions does not view its role as limited to business operations, but as part of a wider responsibility toward nation-building.

She commended NET and the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information for moving swiftly to secure assistance for teachers, noting that supporting educators ultimately ensures that students can continue their learning uninterrupted.

Principal of Merrywood Primary School in St. Elizabeth, Marva McKinnon, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that several teachers suffered significant losses, including damage to homes and personal belongings.

She described the contribution as a meaningful gesture that will help educators begin the rebuilding process.

“This will go a far way for all the teachers who will benefit,” Mrs. McKinnon said.

“Some lost entire homes, others lost roofs, and this support will help them to build back better and stronger. We are truly grateful to the donors and everyone who made this possible,” she shared.

Inova Solutions Jamaica, a Microsoft Cloud and Managed Services partner operating across the Caribbean and Ecuador, specialises in information technology (IT) management, cybersecurity, and support services.

Sharing her own story of overcoming personal and academic challenges, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dr. Kasan Troupe, has charged students to believe in themselves and pursue a path of excellence.

She noted that they will face obstacles but they should never give up.

“You will always have challenges, be it big or small. You may see us up here and feel we did it overnight and feel [it was done] by a magic wand; it’s not a magic wand. It was really about hard work and determination. It’s really about understanding that in life it’s not what has happened to you, but life is what you choose to become. Life is not about what others say about you, but how your successes make the noise for you. Your achievements must be the noise,” she said.

Dr. Troupe was addressing the Leadership Development Programme (LDP) Awards ceremony at St. Andrew High School for Girls where certificates were issued to 123 grade-13 students for successful completion of the programme.

Speaking to the students who are preparing for the next phase of their lives, the Permanent Secretary related her story of a tough childhood growing up without a father.

She did not pass for a traditional high school after sitting the Common Entrance Examination but allowed God to lead her while she bloomed where she was planted.

She rose to become head girl at Trench Town Comprehensive High School, where she was placed, and then a trained teacher after graduating with honours from The Mico University College and is now elated to help lead the Education Ministry.

Dr. Troupe credited teachers at Trench Town Comprehensive High for believing in her and pushing her to excel.

“I had no choice over which family I was born in, which school, all of those were chosen for me. That only choice I had was to maximise the experience I got [and] to be determined to excel,” she said.

“As I stand here this morning, I tell you my own story. I didn’t start out at St. Andrew High School for Girls. I didn’t get the Common Entrance in my days… I didn’t see my name in the paper. I cried… I had to dig deep. I did not get the opportunity of a traditional high school but I didn’t stop,” she pointed out.

“I recognised from very early that there was something deep within me. I had the pedigree for excellence. I never went to St. Andrew, so consider yourself privileged…; do not take this for granted,” she said.

She told the students to “remember that it’s not about where you have started, it’s about where you are going. That’s understanding resilience. You cannot stop on the journey because it is not going your way. It will not always go your way”.

For her part, Principal, St. Andrew High School for Girls, Keeva Ingram, urged the students to learn from and be inspired by Dr. Troupe’s story.

“One of the things I really appreciated was her own life experience and sharing her path but she made a decision to choose her own success. It was really encouraging for the girls to hear that you can achieve what you set your mind to, and I think that is very important for them,” she stated.

The LDP helps students transition more effectively to the world of work, college and university through participation in 20 hours of community service and talks, workshops on important topics led by experts in various field.

At the end of the two-year programme, each student is required to present a written report on their community service and they receive a certificate of participation as proof of their successful completion.

Following this awards ceremony, the school opened the multimillion-dollar Lois Lake-Sherwood Centre built in honour of the late well-known businesswoman, philanthropist and past student.

The space will be dedicated to harnessing the skills of students with an interest in the performing arts.

Glenmuir High School in Clarendon has received a donation of US$100,000 from the Burnett Family Foundation, to assist with the repair of the institution’s auditorium roof, after it was damaged by Hurricane Melissa last October.

The contribution was formally handed over during a ceremony held at the school on April 13.

Facilitating the initiative was the National Education Trust (NET), which continues to play a critical role in mobilising resources and coordinating partnerships aimed at strengthening education infrastructure.

The organisation has been instrumental in bridging support between donors and schools, particularly in the aftermath of natural disasters.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Hon. Rhoda Moy Crawford, underscored the significance of the donation, noting that the funds, valued at more than J$16 million, represent a powerful act of generosity.

She said that the Burnett family could have chosen to spend the money in numerous other ways, but instead opted to invest in the future of Glenmuir High School and its students.

The Minister of State also commended the leadership and academic tradition of the institution, describing Glenmuir as a long-standing beacon of excellence within Jamaica’s education system.

She praised the Acting Principal, Howard Edwards, and the wider school community for their continued commitment to maintaining high standards and expressed confidence that the donation would be effectively utilised under their stewardship.

In his remarks, Head of the Burnett Family Foundation, Dale Burnett, explained that the contribution was driven not by wealth alone but also by a deliberate choice to give back to Jamaica.

He encouraged students and members of the wider community to adopt a spirit of generosity, urging them to “lift as they climb” rather than waiting until they have accumulated significant wealth before making a difference.

Mr. Burnett called on members of the Jamaican Diaspora to play a more active role in supporting national development efforts.

Director for Donor and Partnership Management at NET, Keisha Johnson, highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, noting that the organisation works closely with donors to ensure transparency and accountability.

She commended the Burnett Family Foundation for its commitment and expressed optimism about the potential for a long-term partnership that will continue to benefit the school.

For his part, the Acting Principal welcomed the donation, describing the auditorium as a vital space for both academic and cultural activities.

Mr. Edwards noted that restoration of the roof is critical to preserving a central hub for assemblies, graduations, and community events.

Head Boy, Javier Johnson, expressed gratitude on behalf of the student body, noting that the contribution represents not just financial support but an investment in the future of the institution and its students.

President of The Mico University College, Dr. Asburn Pinnock, says Mathematics plays a central role in shaping reasoning, strengthening problem-solving skills, and empowering individuals to succeed in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven society.

According to Dr. Pinnock, mathematical literacy is no longer optional but is a critical life skill necessary to navigate modern challenges and opportunities.

He pointed out that Mathematics underpins every sector, including education, healthcare, finance, engineering, and the creative industries.

Addressing the institution’s recent Mathematics Expo 2026, held recently at the University, in Kingston, the President underscored the transformative power of mathematics in education and national development.

The President argued that for developing countries like Jamaica, strengthening mathematical competence is vital to building a competitive workforce and achieving sustainable economic growth.

He said students need to regard mathematics as far more than numbers, as it is a way of thinking and understanding the world.

Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Pinnock admitted that he once feared mathematics as a student, even to the extent of being intimidated by his teachers.

He shared that, over time, he experienced a change in perspective, attributing his transformation to both personal growth and faith.

Dr. Pinnock also advocated for competency-based learning, arguing that education systems must move beyond traditional assessment methods to focus on what students can actually do.

He noted that when mathematics begins to make sense to learners, it builds confidence, adding that many students struggle, not because of lack of ability but due to a lack of connection to the subject.

The President said that grounding mathematics in real-world contexts, such as science, technology, and everyday decision-making, makes the subject more accessible and engaging. This, he said, allows students to transition from understanding to confidence, and ultimately to competence, which is essential for both personal and national development.

Dr. Pinnock said that The Mico University College continues to focus on training educators who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about teaching and urged student teachers to embrace their responsibility to inspire curiosity and transform classrooms into spaces of discovery and innovation.

The President encouraged students to approach mathematics with confidence and view it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

He noted that the Mathematics Expo is part of a broader effort to reshape how the subject is taught and experienced, ultimately empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and contributing to the building of a stronger Jamaica.

At the function, keynote speaker, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, was praised by first-year Mathematics student, Dorrianne Bennett, for her inspiring and impactful presentation.

Miss Bennett said the Minister’s address challenged the deeply rooted cultural fear of mathematics and reinforced the message that the subject is accessible to all Jamaicans.

She also called on educators to lead with empathy and ensure that no student feels incapable of learning mathematics.

Miss Bennett stressed the importance of addressing fear before building competence, noting that when mathematics is made relevant and engaging, it can become a source of confidence and even joy for students.

Schools hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa on October 28 will receive additional support through the distribution of 20 generators, provided by the National Education Trust (NET) in partnership with Jamaica Vacations Limited (JamVac).

The new 15,000 watt dual fuel portable generators were officially handed over on Tuesday (April 7), during a ceremony at the National Education Trust (NET) Building, Caenwood Centre, Kingston.

They were donated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Foundation, based in Geneva, Switzerland, with support from its local affiliate, MSC Jamaica Limited.

Speaking during the ceremony, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Hon. Tova Hamilton, underscored that the generator donation reflects the far reaching impact of tourism on individuals, communities, and national development.

“These generators represent the tangible link between tourism and social development. They ensure that when challenges arise, our schools can remain operational, our children can continue learning, and our communities can maintain stability,” she said.

Ms. Hamilton noted that in the immediate aftermath of the devastating Category-Five cyclone, Jamaica’s cruise partners were among the first to extend support to those affected.

The State Minister said this demonstrates the spirit of “true partnership”, which has continued throughout Jamaica’s recovery efforts following the major storm.

“Today’s donation is another example of that commitment… one that strengthens our education system, supports resilience, and uplifts communities that form the backbone of our tourism product,” Ms. Hamilton added.

NET Executive Director, Latoya Harris Ghartey, noted that more than 700 institutions, ranging from the infant to tertiary level, were devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

She added that the generators will be distributed across rural communities still without electricity, providing not only lighting but also powering pumps to ensure reliable water supply for sanitation, food preparation, and other essential needs.

Mrs. Harris Ghartey expressed heartfelt gratitude to JamVac and MSC, noting that the intervention will provide lasting benefits for both students and administrators.

JamVac Executive Director, Joy Roberts, and MSC Jamaica Limited Managing Director, Roger Hinds, both highlighted the significance of the intervention, noting that schools were among the institutions most severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

They welcomed the opportunity to support the beneficiary schools, reaffirming the entities’ commitment to initiatives that deliver a lasting positive impact for Jamaicans.

“Ensuring that these institutions have reliable access to electricity is essential to maintaining the resilience of the communities that are served. To the principals, teachers and students… please note that you are not alone,” Mrs. Roberts stated.

The distribution of the generators, aimed at advancing recovery efforts and ensuring the continuity of education across Jamaica, will be coordinated by NET to prioritise institutions in greatest need.

Education, Skills, Youth and Information Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, has underscored the critical role of mathematics to national development, noting that it is key to building a more innovative, competitive and resilient society.

Delivering the keynote address at The Mico University College Mathematics Expo at the institution’s Marescaux Road location in St. Andrew on Tuesday (March 31), she said that the country’s progress depends heavily on strengthening mathematics education.

She argued that achieving national goals would be impossible without placing the subject at the centre of learning and innovation.

Highlighting the pervasive role of mathematics, she said that the subject underpins everyday activities and multiple sectors, including finance, agriculture, engineering, healthcare and technology.

“Mathematics is everywhere,” she said, pointing to its importance in managing money, designing infrastructure, delivering medical care and driving entrepreneurship.

Even in the digital age, Minister Morris Dixon said that strong numeracy skills are increasingly vital in an era shaped by artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.

She noted that AI systems rely on mathematical principles such as statistics, probability, calculus and linear algebra, noting that those proficient in mathematics will be better positioned to succeed in the future economy.

“Your goal is to build the next generation of technology,” she told the students, adding that confidence in mathematics is key to unlocking opportunities in fields such as coding, engineering and data analysis.

The Minister commended The Mico University College, particularly the Mathematics Department, for organising the expo and advancing the teaching of the subject.

She said that the event, under the theme ‘Mathematics For All: Building Communities, Confidence and Creativity’, is more than a school-based activity, positioning it as a “national development event” aligned with Jamaica’s broader growth agenda.

Addressing the widespread fear of mathematics, which, she noted, continues to hinder many learners, she said that too often students view mathematics as something to endure rather than master, a perception reinforced by adults who project their own anxieties about the subject onto the younger generations.

She emphasised the need to transform how mathematics is taught and experienced, advocating for approaches that make the subject accessible, relevant and engaging.

The Minister said that mathematics education must move beyond abstract concepts to practical application, allowing students to develop reasoning, problem-solving and decision-making skills essential for life, work and active citizenship.

She commended mathematics teachers for their pivotal role in shaping disciplined, analytical thinkers, acknowledging their efforts to overcome students’ fear of the subject.

Senator Morris Dixon urged continued emphasis on engaging teaching methods, meaningful integration of technology and stronger links between classroom learning and real-world application.

She encouraged students to persevere through challenges, reminding them that mistakes are part of the learning process, and expressed hope that the expo would inspire greater appreciation for mathematics and its transformative potential in Jamaica’s future.

Students from schools across St. Thomas, Portland and St. Mary connected with several educational and training institutions, government services and career-building activities at a Youth Opportunities Exposition, on Thursday (March 26).

The inaugural event was organised by the Paul Bogle Vocational Institute in Lyssons, St. Thomas, and took place on the school grounds.

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, in a message delivered by Custos of St. Thomas, Hon. Marcia Bennett, declared the Exposition officially open.

The Governor-General encouraged the youngsters to consider their futures carefully.

“In my own journey, from the classroom to the pulpit, I have come to appreciate a simple but powerful truth. Geography is not destiny. Where you begin does not determine where you will end. Your present circumstances are not your final definition. They are merely your starting point,” he said.

He urged the students to view their life’s work as a great construction project which requires a solid foundation.

“Like any enduring structure, it must be built with care and intention. It cannot rest on indecision and mediocrity. It must be anchored in discipline, strengthened by purpose, and guided by vision,” the Governor-General said.

He deemed the Exposition a procurement centre, providing pathways to vocational excellence, insights into academic advancement, and tools for entrepreneurial success.

Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, Senator Marlon Morgan, who represented Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, said the country wants the young people in St. Thomas, Portland and St. Mary to be on the cutting edge in terms of information and access.

He stressed that the approach to education and training cannot be static, pointing out that, “if we are to remain agile, relevant, and fit for purpose, certainly in education and the training of our young people, we have to ensure that we continue to renew, we continue to refresh, and we continue to rethink”.

To this end, Mr. Morgan charged the youngsters to be intentional in their decision-making.

“The decisions you make will set you up for life. If you make good decisions, you are on a path to being a productive, gainfully employed, and fulfilled citizen of Jamaica,” the Senator said.

Also in attendance at the Expo were representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, including from the High Commissions of Germany, India, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Following the opening ceremony, the officials toured the Paul Bogle Vocational Training Institute, observing some of the work of the students who attend the more than 30-year-old institution.

A major feature of the Expo was a large showing by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), which showcased various branches of its operations, much to the delight of the young attendees.

Sergeant Andrew Williams of the JCF’s Community Safety and Security Branch told JIS News that, “we are bringing your police officers to your doorsteps, so you can have a better understanding of what we do and how we impact the communities”.

“Youth are so important, especially with technology. We want them to understand that the JCF is a wonderful career path for them. But in understanding the JCF, they must know the different sections that we have on offer and, hopefully… that will excite them,” he said.

The Jamaica Defence Force, the Department of Correctional Services, and the Jamaica Fire Brigade were also well represented at the event, as well as all major universities in the island, government and non-governmental agencies and various financial institutions.