Minister Seiveright champions investment in Jamaica’s children

KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) Delano Seiveright has reiterated the importance of investing in Jamaica’s children as a foundation for building a stronger and more prosperous nation. Minister Seiveright delivered the keynote address at the launch of Global Humanity Network Inc's (GHN) beyond the backpack programme, which brought together stakeholders from the education sector, private sector and wider community in support of the three-year educational support and mentoring initiative. The event was held at the Science Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus.

“The philosophy behind beyond the backpack is exactly that: when we invest in a child, we strengthen families, uplift communities and help build a stronger Jamaica,” Seiveright said. The beyond the backpack programme is designed to support students in Jamaica’s public primary schools by addressing barriers that can affect their educational success. Beginning with year four students, the initiative extends beyond the provision of school supplies to include mentorship, leadership development, educational support and other forms of holistic assistance.

The programme is founded on the principle that every child should have the opportunity to realise his or her potential, regardless of the circumstances they face. GHN describes the initiative as an investment in future leaders, educators, innovators and nation builders. "It is not merely about giving something to a student.

It is about opportunity, mentorship, encouragement and hope. Because there is a difference between relief and development. Relief helps somebody through today.

Development increases their capacity to handle tomorrow,” the Minister said. The launch also featured special remarks from Professor Dr Densil A. Williams, Principal of The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus; Mrs Keisha Johnson, Director, Donor & Partnership Management at the National Education Trust (NET); Dr Vinnette Malcolm, Principal of Sheffield Primary School; Mr Damian Crawford, Opposition Spokesperson, Education and Early Childhood Development; and Ms Kennecy Davidson, Acting Chief Education Officer responsible for Guidance and Counselling, who attended on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr Kasan Troupe.