MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Jamalco has reinforced its commitment to education with the donation of over $2 million worth of tools and equipment to enhance the Woodwork and Electrical Laboratories at Porus High School.

In a release on Monday, the mining company said the contribution is expected to significantly improve the school’s capacity to deliver hands-on training and better prepare students for external certification through the NCTVET and City & Guilds examinations in technical subject areas.

The general manager of the company, Shanice Neisbeth-Castle, in addressing the handover event, encouraged students to have a vision for their lives.

“Every single time you step into the woodwork and electrical labs, visualise what you will look like 10 years from now and what you will achieve because you worked hard at developing this skill,” she said.

Industrial Techniques Teacher at Porus High School Derrick Garnett, shows the new woodwork equipment to some of his students immediately after the Handing Over ceremony at Porus High School.

Director of HR, Security and Corporate Services, Christopher Buckmaster, explained that the initiative aligns with Jamalco’s broader vision of youth empowerment through education.

“Our contribution reflects our commitment to equipping students with the tools they need to transform their own lives and shape a better future,” Buckmaster stated. “Without access to the right tools, students are limited in developing the practical skills and technical knowledge required for further education and the workforce. This investment is about building capacity, expanding opportunities, and boosting students’ confidence in using these resources.”

Chairman of the Board, Dr Garth Anderson, underscored the significance of the investment, noting that many students attending Porus High School come from communities within Jamalco’s operating areas, including Harmons, St Toolies, Rheeveswood, and adjoining areas.

“This donation represents Jamalco giving back to the communities it serves,” he said. “It is a meaningful contribution toward advancing technical skills and empowering our young people.”

In the meantime, the keynote speaker at the event, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Rhoda-Moy Crawford, commended Jamalco for the timely and impactful donation, highlighting the critical role of technical and vocational education in national development.

“The strengthening of these laboratories comes at a time when there is increasing demand for skills-based training,” she said. “We value public-private partnerships like this, as they play a vital role in advancing both our students and our country.”

Minister Crawford also encouraged students to take care of the equipment and make full use of the opportunities now available to them

In her overview, Porus High Vice Principal Audrey Blake emphasised the importance of the donation, highlighting that while the school has dedicated classrooms for woodwork and electrical studies, they were previously under-equipped for effective practical instruction and examination readiness.

“Jamalco was approached to assist, and they have delivered in a meaningful way,” Blake noted. “This equipment will support lifelong learning and skills development for our students.”