President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), Dr. Mark Smith is urging a once-in-a-lifetime investment in the nation’s education system, emphasizing the need to retain and support Jamaica’s best educators.

Speaking at the JTA’s 61st Annual Pre-Conference Church Service, the President stressed that it is time for the major political parties to clearly articulate a shared national vision that prioritizes meaningful and sustained investment in teachers.

He noted that quality education begins with empowered educators and that real transformation in the education sector will only happen when teachers are properly supported.