THE European Union-supported Poverty Reduction Programme (PRP) handed over desks and chairs, office furniture and kitchen appliances to seven schools in Kingston and St Andrew on March 11.

This $24-million initiative — to Allman Town Primary; Melrose Infant, Primary & Junior High; St Mary’s Early Childhood Development; St Michael’s Primary; Windward Road Primary & Junior High; St Simon’s Basic and Central Branch All-Age — was implemented by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).

The assistance was extended to include the provision of perimeter fencing to some of the schools, as well as the construction of five play areas complete with the provision of play equipment (swings, jungle gyms, see-saws and slides).

Speaking at the handing over ceremony, Scarlette Gillings, JSIF managing director, said JSIF, through donors such as the European Union, has continued to invest in the upgrading, rehabilitation and construction of early childhood and primary schools.

“Fully one-third of JSIF’s funds are utilised in education,” she added.

She commended the active participation of the parent teachers associations, the boards and all other stakeholders who assisted with repairs over the years and called for their continued support.

The direct beneficiaries of this project are 4,051 students and 256 members of staff.

The PRP is funded jointly by the Government of Jamaica and the European Union.