As the Government of Jamaica advances its vision of a fully digital society, the need for accessible and inclusive internet access continues to grow. Launched in 2020 through the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, the Universal Service Fund (USF) Community Wi-Fi Programme is bridging the digital divide by providing free internet access to underserved communities across the island. The...

Jamaica has taken another decisive step to modernise its justice system with the recent signing of a landmark agreement with the Government of Rwanda for the design, development and implementation of an Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS). Valued at approximately US$4.6 million, and slated for a phased rollout over three years, the initiative is being hailed by the Judiciary...

Among the promising entrepreneurs who participated in the most recent staging of the St. Thomas Economic Village, organised by the Social Development Commission (SDC), was 33 year old baker, Jody Ann Patterson Adams. A resident of Soho in the parish, she brought a sweet touch to the quarterly event with her customised cakes and party treats business – SoSo Sweetz...

Former ward of the State, Anthony Harriott, has already navigated a journey many would consider daunting. Entering the childcare system at just three years old alongside his brother and sister, he has since built an independent life. Today, he is working, living on his own, and inspiring other young people in State care to believe in their potential and prepare...

The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) is reporting that the Electronic Motor Vehicle Certificate of Fitness (e-Fitness) is going well with 446, 610 digital certificates issued under the new system as at March 16. Rolled out in July 2025, the system ushers in a fully digital registration process for motor vehicles eliminating the issuance of paper certificates and decals/stickers. This digital...

The Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey IV (JHLS IV) is well under way, as the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) undertakes a comprehensive study to assess the health status of the Jamaican population and inform health policy. Led by Professor Trevor Ferguson, Dr. Novie Younger Coleman and Dr. Shelly McFarlane, the survey is being conducted in collaboration with and...

For approximately 15 years, a small group of senior citizens has been turning ordinary Fridays into an act of service, selling fruits, plants and donated items to help feed vulnerable persons in and around Morant Bay, St. Thomas. The initiative is rooted in the Anglican Church’s outreach efforts and is held at the Anglican Church Hall near Paul Bogle Square....

Parents are being encouraged to talk to their children about sexual abuse from an early age, including physical boundaries and the privacy of body parts, to empower them to recognise and report abuse. In an interview with JIS News, Regional Clinical Psychologist at the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA), Dr. Alcon Barnett, says that having open conversations with children can...

Scores of young people in Seaview Gardens, St. Andrew, benefited from a Youth Empowerment Fair hosted by the Social Development Commission (SDC), aimed at linking them with employment, training and certification pathways. Held recently at the Seaview Gardens Primary School, the initiative brought together several government agencies and private-sector entities to provide on-the-spot career guidance, programme registration and recruitment opportunities....