As Jamaica moves forward with its new thrust towards

education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the Government

plans to establish six new STEM high schools or academies that will serve as

Centres of Excellence for STEM education.

“We are also collaborating with private-sector

entities to establish a National STEM Teacher Development Centre, as the

development of a cadre of high-quality teachers is critical to our efforts to

transform the educational system,” the Prime Minister said.

Mr Holness made the announcement during his 2020/21 Budget Debate presentation in the House of Representatives, on Thursday (March 19).

The Chinese Government is to assist with three of

the schools, while the Government will be responsible for covering the cost for

the other three.

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While we are focusing on STEM, this is not to the

exclusion of arts and culture. Our objective is to catalyse the growth of our

creative industries, such as music, art and craft through the infusion of STEM

skills and new technologies,” the Prime Minister said.