MORE than 1,000 students across Jamaica were introduced to the future of energy and sustainability through storytelling as team members from the Jamaica Public Service Company Limited (JPS) participated in Read Across Jamaica Day activities at 16 primary schools islandwide.

The initiative — which spanned schools in Clarendon, Manchester, Hanover, St James, St Catherine, St Elizabeth, and Kingston — saw JPS representatives engaging students through interactive reading sessions designed not only to promote literacy, but also to introduce important national conversations around sustainability from an early age.

At the centre of the experience was children’s book The New Car on the Block, which follows a young girl named Zora as she explores the world of electric vehicles (EVs). Set in Jamaica, the story highlights the environmental benefits of EVs while encouraging young readers, particularly girls, to see themselves in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.

Through lively storytelling and discussion the students responded with excitement and curiosity, with many expressing enthusiasm about electric vehicles and their potential to positively impact the environment.

For many, the concept of EVs was both new and exciting, reinforcing the importance of introducing these ideas in relatable and engaging ways.

According to JPS, the initiative reflected its broader commitment to national development, recognising that building a sustainable future begins with education and awareness at the earliest levels.

“Read Across Jamaica Day provided an opportunity for us to connect with students in a meaningful way, using storytelling as a tool to introduce concepts that will shape the future of our country,” said Shenee Tabannah Anderson, brand experience and special projects officer at JPS.

“As Jamaica continues its transition toward more sustainable energy solutions it is important that our young people are not only aware of these changes but inspired by them,” added Tabannah Anderson.

As part of the initiative, copies of the book were donated to participating schools by the JPS Foundation, along with tokens of appreciation for both students and teachers.