JPS invests $22 million in back-to-school support across Jamaica

Jamaica Public Service says it has put about $22 million behind this year’s back-to-school effort, combining practical help for families with longer-term support for students and schools.

Through the JPS Foundation and partnerships with community organisations, the company provided book vouchers, school supplies, uniform materials, scholarships, grants and direct assistance to schools. Students and parents also took part in sessions focused on the transition to first form, sixth form and tertiary education, with motivational, emotional and psychosocial guidance included.

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Back-to-school preparation can place significant pressure on families, particularly when several expenses arise at once.

The programme reached communities in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland that are still recovering from Hurricane Melissa. Schools listed among the recipients included Parottee Primary, Black River High, Lacovia Primary, Lewisville High, Roger Clarke High, New Works Primary, Darliston Primary, Godfrey Stewart High, New Hope Primary, Kings Primary and Belmont High.

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Our support goes beyond providing supplies. It is about helping students begin the academic year prepared and confident, while ensuring that families and schools receive meaningful support.

Support also extended to Kingston and St Catherine. At a back-to-school fair in Waterhouse on Sunday, August 30, children and families joined games and entertainment and were served ice cream. Students recognised for academic performance received backpacks and bookstore vouchers. JPS also supported the St Catherine South East back-to-school health fair.

Scholarships and grants made up roughly $11 million of the investment. The Power Up Scholarship Programme awarded 25 new scholarships and grants and renewed 16 existing awards for students entering high school or pursuing tertiary and teacher-training programmes. JPS Director of Corporate Communications Winsome Callum said the needs differed from one community to another, requiring support tailored to supplies, educational transitions and financial assistance.

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The needs are not the same in every community, so our support cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach.