KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) – State Minister for Education, Youth and Information, Floyd Green, says the Government is committed to ensuring that schools are adequately resourced for the commencement of the 2016/17 school year.

He noted that already, over $1.4 billion in tuition support has been distributed to high schools following the abolition of auxiliary fees. This is the first of four tranches under the new funding arrangement.

Green was addressing the Jamaica Teachers’ Association’s (JTA) Golden Torch Award ceremony at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston yesterday.

He informed that work is under way to repair and upgrade school plants.  “Some of you will return to better physical surroundings with the addition of new classrooms to ease congestion,” he pointed out.

A total of 212 educators from across the island were honoured, during the ceremony, for over 35 years of contribution to education.

The State Minister praised the recipients for their service.  “I salute all of you teachers as trailblazers who have set a high standard of excellence,” he said.

He commended those teachers who are participating in the various development workshops, which got under way this week, particularly the session on the national standards curriculum.

Under the new system, emphasis will be placed on project-based and problem-solving learning, with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics/Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEM/STEAM) integrated at all levels.

The approaches will allow the learners to have hands-on experience that is similar to real world situations, making the learning experience less abstract and more concrete.

 “I implore you to make use of the training as we move to position Jamaica to be the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business,” Green said.

JTA President, Norman Allen, in adding his commendations, encouraged the awardees to continue to make a difference in the lives of young people.

“Stay dedicated. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. There are thousands of Jamaicans who appreciate your contributions,” he said.

Among the honourees was Principal of Edith Dalton James High, Ray Howell, for 44 years of service. Howell, who is a JTA Past President, conceptualised the award scheme.

The Golden Torch Award, first presented in 1993, recognises members of the JTA who have contributed to nation building through education.  Awardees must be Jamaican citizens, be in active service, and must have given at least 35 years to education in the country.