KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) is welcoming the announcement by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development that all remaining Hurricane Melissa shelterees currently housed in school shelters will be relocated to suitable accommodations by May 8.

The announcement follows concerns raised by President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Dr Mark Malabver that students are being given a front-row seat to sex acts engaged in by Hurricane Melissa victims who are still sheltering in some schools.

JTA in a media release on Monday, noted that this development reflects the seriousness of concerns raised regarding student safety, child protection, and the disruption to teaching and learning.

READ: Gov’t targets May deadline to relocate Hurricane Melissa shelterees

While welcoming the announcement, JTA however noted that the proposed timeline appears longer than is ideal, given the continued impact on schools, educators, and students.

“The association therefore encourages all relevant authorities to expedite the process where possible,” JTA said. “The JTA also acknowledges and thanks the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ) and the National Secondary Students’ Council (NSSC) for helping to bring this matter to national attention. The association will be closely monitoring implementation and expects that the stated timeline will be met.”

Additionally, the JTA expressed appreciation to teachers and school leaders in the worst-affected parishes for their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment in navigating these challenging circumstances.

“We look forward to the day when schools in these communities are fully restored—where students and teachers are able to interact in safe, supportive learning spaces, and where education recovery can truly take root within these institutions. The announcement marks important progress; the priority now is timely delivery,” JTA said.

READ: ‘Deeply troubling’