The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has welcomed the Education Ministry’s decision to provide psycho-social support to schools affected by Hurricane Melissa.

However, the JTA stresses that the initiative must be sustained and not be a one-off event. 

The move comes after the Category 5 hurricane caused widespread damage to educational institutions, claiming at least 32 lives and destroying homes and infrastructure.

Portfolio Minister, Dr. Dana Morris Dixon and her Opposition counterpart Damion Crawford noted the importance of reopening schools safely, to restore children’s learning-and normalcy, while expanding access to counselling and support services for students and staff.

Speaking at the Mandeville Baptist Church yesterday, JTA President, Mark Malabver stressed that long-term support is essential for the genuine rebuilding of schools with clear outcomes to evaluate the well-being of teachers and students, over time.

Meanwhile, Malabver said the JTA will launch its suite of psycho-social programs in partnership with international organizations to ensure educators are equipped to lead effectively during crises.