KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth, and Job Creation (MEGJC) Karl Samuda has moved to reassure staff at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, for which he has interim oversight responsibility, that he will work with them to ensure continued public confidence in the entity’s operations.

Samuda, who was Tuesday assigned to the ministry following the sudden resignation of former Education Minister Ruel Reid, gave the reassurance when he met officers of the Executive Management group of the ministry yesterday.

According to the Education Ministry, Samuda commended the staff for the great service being done in the education sector, which he said, had the potential for the greatest impact on the social and economic direction of the country, including the fight against crime.

He said his responsibility was to get a better understanding of the ministry’s management systems and to see to it that any weakness in general management, procurement or other areas were addressed in accordance with good governance principles.

The minister also pledged to work with the ministry’s team to ensure that the good work is publicised across the island.

Former Permanent Secretary in the Education Ministry and now assigned to the MEGJC, Audrey Sewell, is said to have accompanied the minister on his first meeting with the officers.

The minister was also welcomed by Minister of State in the ministry Alando Terrelonge and Acting Permanent Secretary, Dr Grace McLean.