Jamaica Learning Plan Moves Forward After Hurricane Melissa Impact
The Jamaica learning plan is now taking shape as the Ministry of Education responds to the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. The Ministry aims to protect learning continuity, especially for children in western Jamaica. These steps come as many schools struggle to reopen safely.
Portfolio Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon shared the proposals in the Senate on November 21. She explained that the chosen model will depend on the level of infrastructural damage at each school. As a result, some schools will undergo temporary consolidation in Regions 3, 4 and 5.
Support Measures and Temporary Solutions
Regions 3, 4 and 5 include several parishes across the island. Many communities face long travel distances, so the Ministry plans to bus students to nearby campuses. This measure ensures that students can return to face-to-face classes.
In addition, the Ministry is exploring rapid temporary solutions. International partners have already stepped in. UNICEF has provided specialised tents and essential supplies. Ten tents have already arrived, and more than 60 are on the way. These resources will help schools resume teaching while long-term repairs continue.
Long-Term Recovery and Damage Assessment
Dr. Morris Dixon stressed the need for a stronger system. She said that the Ministry is preparing a Resilience Upgrade Plan. This plan will guide a multi-year overhaul of school infrastructure. It will also prioritise long-term protection from climate events.
A preliminary request for the phased repair of more than 600 schools has gone to Cabinet. So far, 679 schools and 21 tertiary institutions have reported damage. The Ministry classified them into three priority levels, ranging from severe to minor impact.
The disruption has affected over 111,000 students and 5,000 staff. Private institutions also suffered, with 126 of 520 independent schools reporting damage.
