Grade-Five students at three St. Ann schools are to receive dedicated guidance and encouragement through a new Custos Commando Mentorship pilot programme, launched by the St. Ann Justices of the Peace Association.

70 JP’s have volunteered to mentor students at Exchange Primary, Ocho Rios Primary and St. John’s Preparatory schools.

Each JP will be paired with up to two students in need of mentorship, meeting with them at least twice per month to help build their confidence, character and readiness for their final year of primary school.

The eleven-month programme runs through to next year July and will conclude with a grand exit ceremony.

Each volunteer is expected to submit a bi-monthly update on their relationship with the mentees.

Custos Rotulorum of St. Ann Joseph Issa described the initiative as key to the parish’s vision of improvement for the young people.

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck commended the St. Ann JP’s for undertaking the initiative.