New State Minister Affirms Commitment to Advancing Education Transformation

Education is a familiar domain for newly appointed State Minister in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Hon. Rhoda Moy Crawford.

With a foundation in classroom experience and academic training, she has expressed her readiness to serve and contribute to the transformation of Jamaica’s education sector.

Speaking with JIS News on September 19, following her swearing-in ceremony at King’s House, Ms. Crawford expressed gratitude as she assumed her new responsibilities as State Minister.

“First of all, I’m very honoured and very thankful. I am also very excited, because education is my background. I’m a trained teacher of English Language and English Literature. I received training at Shortwood Teachers’ College,” she shared.

The State Minister holds a first degree in Language Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Educational Leadership.

“It feels like familiar ground. I am looking forward to working very closely, under the guidance of [Portfolio] Minister [Senator Dr. the Hon.] Dana Morris Dixon, to deliver transformation and just exciting initiatives for our children and adult learners of Jamaica,” she said.

As she assumes her new role, Ms. Crawford is prioritising alignment with the Ministry’s strategic vision and policy goals.

“My immediate priority is to sit with the Minister to see what the plans are, have a discussion and see what the focus areas for me will be,” she explained.

Balancing her dual responsibilities as State Minister and Member of Parliament for Manchester Central is a challenge Ms. Crawford embraces with unwavering dedication.

“I’m very accustomed to balancing and I’m about servant leadership. I can never forget that to be able to assume this role, it is because the people of Manchester Central elected me. So they have to, at all times, be at my forefront,” she affirmed.

The State Minister assured the public of her commitment to service and excellence.

“They can expect servant leadership, undiluted love and commitment to the people of Jamaica, leadership with excellence, leadership with distinction and just a lot of work,” Ms. Crawford said.