Education Minister Underscores Importance of JTA

Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, has underscored the importance of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) to the island’s education sector.

Mrs. Williams said the Ministry recognises the JTA as an important partner in Jamaica’s education system and looks forward to working with the entity to the benefit of the country’s development.

“You have been united in advocating for education access for students across the country, and in this you and the Ministry share a united vision and purpose,” the Minister said.

She was addressing the JTA’s 59th Annual Conference Awards Ceremony, held at the Royalton Negril Resorts and Spa in Westmoreland on Tuesday (August 22).

Mrs. Williams commended the educators, noting that they have acted on their passion and calling “and remained in a profession where the rewards rarely come in the form of material things”.

“In your work with the JTA, you have committed to a role of advocacy, not only for your colleagues but also for improvement in education,” she stated.

The Minister congratulated the awardees for their service to the island’s education sector and noted that they serve as great examples that others can replicate.

“All of us together have a unique opportunity, not only to shape lives and minds but, indeed, future generations. Those of you being recognised this evening have played an important role in that process. You have set a fine example for others to emulate,” she said.

“Your dedication, professionalism and commitment to teaching, specifically, and the education sector, in general, have left indelible marks on the lives of hundreds of Jamaicans, and the country is the better for this. It is, therefore, fitting that your work should be recognised in the name of the stalwarts who have served the profession with excellence,” Mrs. Williams added.

The Education Minister also congratulated the JTA’s incoming President, Leighton Johnson, and the executive team for 2023/2024.

The JTA conference is being held from August 21 to August 23, under the theme ‘Advancing the Vision: Reigniting the Passion through Equitable, Inclusive Educational Opportunities’.