Jamaica: 902 schools set for 2024/25 Academic year despite Hurricane Beryl’s impact

The Ministry of Education and Youth of Jamaica has reported that 902 of the island’s 1,009 schools are ready to begin the 2024/25 academic year despite being impacted by Hurricane Beryl. The Ministry reported that the session will begin on September 2, 2024. 

This information was shared by the Education Minister, Fayval Williams, during the press briefing at the Ministry’s National Heroes Circle offices in Kingston on Monday, August 26. 

Minister Williams shared that the category of roof repairs classified as “priority one,” which means these are the most urgent repairs that need to be addressed. There are 107 properties in this category. 

Further sharing the status, she noted as of Friday, the progress on these repairs has been tracked, and the administration is confident that approximately 90 of the priority one repairs are proceeding as planned. 

Also, she said there are potential delays or issues that might prevent them from being completed on time.  Further, to address the potential delays, Minister Williams is requesting that Principals assist in creating and implementing contingency plans. 

Minister Williams noted that a contingency plan could include the use of temporary tents or church halls. 

She further stated that due to the magnitude of the destruction, some of the institutions will undergo construction and renovation work while the schools are in session. 

Calling the situation “not to be picture perfect,” the Minister outlined that they also want the people to remember that there are 139 schools on the priority-two list that have suffered damages. However, the administration has determined that those schools can operate even while the work is going on. 

“If there is a situation in which the building cannot be used, there will be contingency plans in place. The administration will have to communicate on a school-by-school basis to the parents directly, so that they are aware of exactly what to expect as their kids come on September 2,” the Minister further stated. 

Meanwhile, Minister Williams highlighted that the electricity is being restored in all the schools across the island. Also, progress is being made at the schools that require electrical repairs. 

The administration is constantly in touch with the Principals of the schools keep a check on the supply of electricity, water, internet connectivity and any other issue so that it could be solved before the beginning of the session.  

Minister Williams assured that all schools are now ready for the last clean-up and preparation to welcome back the students on September 2.