KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Prime Minister Andrew Holness carried out the first in a series of consultations with ministries, when he met with executives of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, today.

While on a tour of the ministry’s Heroes Circle offices, Holness said he intends to meet with permanent secretaries, executives and other members of staff of all ministries to personally communicate his vision and the direction of his administration.

In line with what he describes as “the missioning exercise”, Holness said it is important that bodies that execute the Government’s policies have direct interaction with the prime minister.

“Government doesn’t just exist on its own it’s about building partnerships, but more than that, it’s about building relationships which sometimes require contact. I want people to recognise and feel and see what my vision is,” he said.

Holness said today’s meeting was an opportunity to deliver the mission of the Government specific to education and set direction as to how this sector can serve to advance the push for economic growth, job creation and public safety.

He met with portfolio minister, Ruel Reid; Minister of State Floyd Green; Permanent Secretary, Dr Maurice Smith; Chief Education Officer, Dr Grace McLean and other directors, in three separate consultations.

 The prime minister said he delivered a charge for there to be value for money in the education sector, which includes improved efficiencies and accountability. He said he also urged high standards of service in the delivery of quality education.

There was also discussion on the implementation policies, including the tuition-free policy for secondary schools.

“It’s one thing to have policies, but you have to have a transmission mechanism, so that the people who are going to implement it can genuinely understand.  So, when I come, along with the minister and explain what it is I would like to see happen, they can ask questions (and get clarification),” Holness said.