With the new school term fast approaching, concern is being raised over the pace at which institutions damaged during the passage of Hurricane Beryl are being repaired.

Following the Category 4 hurricane last month, the Education Ministry indicated that 300 schools suffered damage, with a $2.7 billion repair bill.

In a later update, the Ministry noted that 94 of the damaged schools were deemed severe, and are being treated as priority one ahead of the new school year.

A report issued by the Ministry this week indicated that the Government had commenced rehabilitative works on at least 45 schools.

While work on some institutions is far advanced, others had a September 20 projected timeline for the works to be completed.

Speaking with IRIE FM news, President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association Leighton Johnson said while he acknowledges that works on schools are ongoing, those efforts must be ramped up.

Noting the learning loss experienced during the COVID pandemic, Mr. Johnson said all measures must be taken to ensure education is not disrupted.