Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, says that despite the various challenges, significant progress has been made in literacy, teacher training, and the accessibility of high-school education, over the past six decades.

In her address to educators and stakeholders at the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) 60th Education Conference 2024, at the Ocean Coral Spring Hotel in Trelawny on April 2, the Minister emphasised the strides taken in improving literacy rates across Jamaica.

She praised the dedication of teachers and the collaborative efforts that have contributed to enhancing literacy levels among students throughout the country,

“Sixty years ago, only about 40 per cent of the teachers were trained. Today, we boast 10 teacher-training institutions, including those with teacher education faculties. And I would say 100 per cent of our teachers are trained,” Mrs. Williams noted.

“Even though there is still room for improvement, giant leaps have been made over the last six decades. Sixty years ago, if I could cast your minds back, almost half a million adults in Jamaica were illiterate. Today, the literacy rate of Jamaica overall is 88 per cent. Significantly higher. Yes, I’m also going to say [it is] not near that of our colleagues in the Caribbean, so we do have some way to go, even as we celebrate how far we have come,” the Minister added.

Reflecting on the advancements in teacher training, Mrs. Williams cited the continuous development and support provided to educators to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively educate the youth of Jamaica.

She emphasised the importance of ongoing professional development for teachers to enhance the quality of education delivered in the classrooms.

Mrs. Williams also noted the progress made in ensuring easy access to high-school education for all students in Jamaica, pointing to initiatives aimed at expanding educational opportunities and removing barriers to entry, particularly for marginalised communities.

She further reiterated the Government’s commitment to promoting inclusive education that caters to the diverse needs of students.

“While there is nothing wrong in celebrating these achievements, there is [absolutely] no room for complacency in the education sector. We are encouraging educators to continue striving for excellence and innovation in teaching practices to further enhance the quality of education in Jamaica,” the Minister said.

Mrs. Williams further stressed the importance of adapting to the changing educational landscapes and embracing new technologies to meet the evolving needs of students.

She commended the JTA for its dedication in advancing the teaching profession and advocating for the rights of educators, adding that she has always been impressed with the role of the association in promoting collaboration among teachers and fostering a supportive community within the education sector.

Mrs. Williams also called for a moment of reflection on the accomplishments to date, as well as the challenges that lie ahead, further emphasising the need for collective efforts to address gaps in the education system and work towards greater inclusivity and equity in education.

“I want to express, on behalf of the Ministry, our gratitude to all educators, stakeholders, and partners in the education sector for their unwavering commitment to providing quality education for the youth of Jamaica. We will continue to do our part to ensure the continued progress and success of Jamaica’s education system in the years to come,” the Minister said.