PATH Overhaul Key to Human Capital Development – Minister Charles Jr.

The current overhaul of the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) is essential for the continued development of Jamaica’s human capital, says Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr.

He said the transformation of the 22-year-old social protection programme will consider the evolving needs of the population, providing enhanced support to vulnerable individuals and families, which is crucial for achieving sustainable human development.

“Human capital development is essential, and that’s why we are on this mission to make sure that we leave no one behind,” Mr. Charles Jr. said.
“Almost 10 per cent of the country is impacted by PATH, and the reality is if we are to truly have a comprehensive investment made, we have to make sure that PATH is as effective as it can be,” he added.

He was addressing the first in a series of PATH town hall meetings at the Wesley Methodist Church Hall in Brown’s Town, St. Ann, on January 31.

The Minister said the Government is focused on the welfare of citizens amidst the restructuring and strengthening of the nation’s economic framework.

He said the objective is not only to provide assistance but also to empower individuals for self-sufficiency.

“We have to focus on our people. We have to focus on lifting them up and not just handing out to them,” he pointed out.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Collette Roberts Risden, highlighted the inclusive nature of the programme, which extends support to families in need, children from infancy to secondary school, pregnant and lactating women, the elderly and persons with disabilities.

“[Also], if you have a child who has a disability, when that child gets to 18 years old you still continue to get a benefit for that child because of the disability. So, those are the main categories that are on PATH,” she noted.