Dear Editor,

Jamaica stands at an educational crossroads, faced with an urgent call to reimagine how we prepare young minds for a rapidly changing world. The 2024 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results reveal a troubling reality: only 18 per cent of students achieved five or more subjects, including maths and English.

Mathematics, often called the “language of the universe”, remains a stumbling block, with CSEC maths pass rates falling short despite a 58 per cent success rate in City and Guilds maths exams.

The gaps are clear, and the stakes are high. Without a strong foundation in maths, Jamaica risks falling behind in STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths)-driven global advancements. The solution must start early, in primary schools, ensuring every child masters essential skills in reading, writing, and basic numeracy.

Yet many students still leave without these basics. Dr Kasan Troupe, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Education and Youth, emphasises early interventions to bridge these gaps and set all students on a path to success.

Success stories like Denham Town High School offer a glimpse of hope. Additional maths classes there have led to significant improvements, proving that targeted efforts can yield results. Expanding such initiatives across underserved communities is vital.

Revolutionising maths education requires innovation. Picture grocery aisles and bus stops transformed into learning hubs through QR codes and maths apps. Students could scan codes for challenges, earning rewards and fostering a love for maths. Gamified learning promises to turn dread into discovery.

Higher-level maths mastery is also critical for excelling in subjects like chemistry and physics. The true challenge lies in decoding the language of maths — understanding the concepts hidden within word problems.

AI offers a path forward. With tools like AI-powered learning systems and affordable Google Chromebooks, teachers can personalise instruction and students can access self-guided, interactive platforms. This fusion of technology and teaching can unlock every child’s potential.

Policies must ensure no child progresses without mastering basic skills, anchoring Jamaica’s future in equity and excellence. By embracing innovation Jamaica can prepare its youth for the AI-driven world of 2035 in which maths tells stories and limitless possibilities await.

Horatio Deer

horatiodeer2357@gmail.com