Most Schools Reporting Significant Student Turnout for First Week of 2024/25 Academic Year
By: , September 4, 2024
Photo: Donald De La Haye
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, speaking during Wednesday’s (September 4) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.The Full Story
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, is reporting that only two of the island’s 1,009 primary and secondary schools have reported not having students returning as yet, whether online or face-to-face.
“They expect to have full engagement by Monday (September 9),” Mrs. Williams said.
She was speaking during Wednesday’s (September 4) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.
Mrs. Williams informed that there are four primary schools where there is some limited online engagement, while adding that “they are just awaiting the final completion of work that needs to be done; but they, too, are expected to be back by Monday (September 9)”.
The Minister pointed out that while Hurricane Beryl damaged 362 schools, these institutions have been built back better.
“I am sure if you go to inspect, you will see more hurricane straps in our schools, you will see better quality roofing materials, better quality materials in terms of resistance to termites. So a lot has been done to help to increase the resilience of our schools,” she stated.
The Minister also acknowledged the inputs of contractors who worked long hours, overtime and on weekends to ensure that the work is completed.
“During the processs, we did encounter some severe weather. For example, I know last week there was quite a bit of rain in Portland that hampered the work there for two of our schools. But, notwithstanding, I want to note the work that has been done, so far, and to say that it is commendable; and I extend gratitude to all who have worked effortlessly in this regard,” Mrs. Williams said.
She also informed that the Ministry has, to date, delivered 19,878 pieces of furniture, desks and chairs, noting that the distribution continues.
“We continue to respond, in the event that there wasn’t a school that had indicated earlier on. But with Beryl, they might have seen where they need new furniture, and we are responding to those as well,” Mrs. Williams said.