Education ministry preparing contingency plans for schools still under repair

Jamaica's Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information is developing alternative arrangements for students attending schools still undergoing repairs after Hurricane Melissa. Parliamentary Secretary Senator Marlon Morgan disclosed that measures such as rotating students on alternate days are being considered for the 2026/27 academic year, which begins in September.

Senator Morgan stated during a tour of hurricane-affected schools in St. Elizabeth that the ministry aims to have most schools fully operational by the new academic year. However, he acknowledged that some institutions might still have outstanding repair work when classes resume. The ministry is committed to ensuring that teaching and learning proceed without interruption, even amidst ongoing construction.

"We have to be responsible people… we have to be practical people and solutions-oriented people, in relation to managing and getting on… even while we have suffered displacement," Senator Morgan emphasized. He noted the potential challenges of ongoing construction, such as noise and dust, and urged contractors to expedite work while maintaining quality standards.

During a visit to Glen Stuart Primary and Infant School, Senator Morgan praised the school community for their dedication despite operating under difficult conditions since the hurricane. Repair work at Glen Stuart Primary is estimated at approximately $140 million, with some tasks, including canteen roofing, window installations, and electrical work, facing delays.

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We have to be responsible people… we have to be practical people and solutions-oriented people, in relation to managing and getting on… even while we have suffered displacement.