ST THOMAS, Jamaica – The Barking Lodge Primary and Infant School in St Thomas now boasts a brand-new state-of-the-art infant department through investment of $41 million by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund.

The project entailed the transformation of the teacher’s cottage at the school into two modern classrooms, with a sick bay, bathroom facilities, a kitchenette, an office and perimeter fencing.

Chief Executive Officer of the CHASE Fund, Billy Heaven, in his remarks at the handing over ceremony on Monday, said “the completion of the building is not only the fulfilment of a promise to build infrastructure projects right across Jamaica, but is also in satisfaction of our mandate to invest in the future of Jamaica through early childhood education.”

He informed that the CHASE Fund has invested over $700 billion in the early childhood education sector since its inception, and the Barking Lodge Primary is one of four schools that have, in recent times, received infrastructure upgrades.

He called on the parents and wider community to impart positive values on the young learners, highlighting the need for greater collaboration in building a stronger early childhood sector.

“In order for us to provide high quality early childhood education, it requires collaboration amongst all stakeholders – the children, parents, educators, community at large, policy makers and funding agencies like the CHASE Fund, ” Heaven said.

Member of Parliament for St Thomas Eastern, Dr Michelle Charles, lauded the CHASE Fund for providing the “necessary resources to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment for our youngest leaders and learners”.

“This investment in Barking Lodge is an investment in the future of St Thomas. It sends a powerful message that our children matter, our teachers deserve the best and our community is worthy of development,” Charles said.

She also made a presentation of learning clocks and reading books to the school, to be utilised by the students.

For her part, Acting Senior Director for Cross Sectoral Coordination at the Early Childhood Commission, Andrea Edwards-Brown, applauded the CHASE Fund, pointing out that the donation is more than just infrastructure.

“It represents the commitment to Jamaica’s youngest citizens, the foundation for the dreams that will take shape – the laughter, the learning and limitless potential that will be within the four walls,” she said.

“We’re witnessing the transformation of futures – an investment that will transcend generations,” she added.

–         JIS