KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government is to introduce a diploma programme  early next year for persons, who did not finish high school.

Education Minister Ronald Thwaites, made the announcement yesterday while addressing a special ceremony for over 100 persons, who provided services during the recent Jamaica 50 celebrations and the cricket test match at Sabina Park. They were trained by Manpower and Maintenance Services Limited (MMS) in collaboration with Independence Park Limited (IPL).

“By the early part of next year (2013), we are going to be rolling out in Jamaica, a programme for high school diplomas for every one of you, who never got it in your time. (It is) a programme that is going to take you from where you are; if you are reading at sixth book, that’s fine, you can move from there. If you are reading at first book or you can’t read at all, it doesn’t matter, we start there,” the Education Minister said. 

He explained that the programme will provide an opportunity for certification in Mathematics, English, science, civics and computer technology.

“Look out for that opportunity  because if you take your time, whether it is 10 years or three years or one year to get your high school diploma… (It is) never too late. You have your opportunity,” he said.

The honourees, many of whom come from inner city communities, were trained over a period of three weeks in the areas of supervisory management and cleaning and sanitation techniques. They were recognised for their service and received certificates of participation.