KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining and Member of Parliament for St Elizabeth South Western, Floyd Green, has challenged the graduating class of Black River High School to prepare themselves for the “unprecedented” opportunities that will emerge as Black River undergoes a major transformation over the coming years.

Addressing the school’s graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 24, Minister Green told the 168 graduates that while completing high school was a significant achievement, the choices they make from this point forward will determine whether they are ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

He pointed to the planned redevelopment of Black River, including the creation of a new urban centre, as one of the most significant periods of growth the town would experience in generations.

“We will need project managers. We will need people to work in construction. We will need entrepreneurs to establish new businesses. There are a number of areas in which we will need your talent. As such, align your next steps and what you do after this point with the opportunities that will emerge in Black River so you can take advantage of them,” Green urged.

He encouraged the graduates to think strategically about further education, skills training and entrepreneurship, noting that preparing today would position them to benefit from the jobs and businesses that will accompany the town’s development.

Green also praised the resilience of the graduating class, describing them as one of the strongest groups to come through the institution.

“You are graduating under circumstances that many before you never had to face. You navigated the disruption caused by COVID-19. You endured Hurricane Beryl and, more recently, Hurricane Melissa. Yet despite every challenge placed before you, you remained focused and made it to this day. That speaks to your resilience, determination and character,” he added.

He also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to restoring and strengthening the school following the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa.

Green highlighted the Ministry of Education’s investment of approximately $300 million to rehabilitate and upgrade schools affected by Hurricane Melissa, ensuring that students and staff return to a stronger, more resilient learning environment.

Within this, Black River High is seeing the renovation of the school’s auditorium, which will be equipped with air conditioning and solar power, upgrades to classrooms, strengthening of slabs and other critical infrastructure to better withstand severe weather events, the construction of a new guardhouse and a number of additional improvements across the campus.

He noted that the investment reflects the Government’s commitment not only to rebuilding after disasters but also to creating facilities that are better prepared for the future.

Green congratulated all 168 graduates, their parents, teachers and support staff. He also encouraged them to remain ambitious and to continue believing that they can build successful careers and businesses at home in St Elizabeth.

“Your future is bright, and your community is changing. Prepare yourselves now so that when opportunity comes, you are ready to lead, to build and to succeed,” Green said.