Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., has announced an increase in benefits for all National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pensioners. The Minister, in his contribution to the 2025/26 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 13), informed that retirement (old age), widows, widowers, invalidity pension will move from $4,200 to $4,620 per week. Pensioners,...

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., is encouraging parents to teach their children about responsible use of social media to better equip them to safely navigate their way through the digital space. Noting that social media has many positives, including providing access to educational resources to enhance learning,  he said that when used  inappropriately “it is...

Students at the secondary and tertiary levels are being encouraged to take advantage of support available under the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for employment, entrepreneurship or to pursue further studies. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. said there are a range of interventions for vulnerable students, including internships, education and entrepreneurship grants, as wells as the Steps-to-Work programme...

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., on Monday (April 28), emphasised the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology and innovation to boost efficiency and productivity, while ensuring workplace safety and health. He was speaking during a visit of the Grace Food Processors (GFP) Canning Division (NALCAN) on Twickenham Close in Kingston, as part of the...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is encouraging Jamaicans in rural or remote areas to utilise its satellite offices, which make the Ministry’s wide range of services more accessible in these communities. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., and State Minister, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, toured one of the offices, situated at the Castleton Health Centre in St....

Knox College student, 19-year-old Dwight Henry and Marymount High School student, 15-year-old Tavia Robinson, are the 2025 Jamaica 4-H Clubs Boy and Girl of the Year. The announcement was made at the Club’s National Achievement Day, held at the 4-H Training Centre in Denbigh, Clarendon, on April 16. Mr. Henry who hails from the parish of Clarendon was able to...

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., says the Ministry is working with partners to promote digital literacy and emotional competence from early childhood through to the adult workforce. “At some point, we're also going to have to have the discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) fluency, because similar to different languages, we will have to have a...