KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) Delano Seiveright has reiterated the importance of investing in Jamaica’s children as a foundation for building a stronger and more prosperous nation.

Minister Seiveright delivered the keynote address at the launch of Global Humanity Network Inc’s (GHN) beyond the backpack programme, which brought together stakeholders from the education sector, private sector and wider community in support of the three-year educational support and mentoring initiative.

The event was held at the Science Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus.

“The philosophy behind beyond the backpack is exactly that: when we invest in a child, we strengthen families, uplift communities and help build a stronger Jamaica,” Seiveright said.

The beyond the backpack programme is designed to support students in Jamaica’s public primary schools by addressing barriers that can affect their educational success. Beginning with year four students, the initiative extends beyond the provision of school supplies to include mentorship, leadership development, educational support and other forms of holistic assistance.

The programme is founded on the principle that every child should have the opportunity to realise his or her potential, regardless of the circumstances they face. GHN describes the initiative as an investment in future leaders, educators, innovators and nation builders.

“It is not merely about giving something to a student. It is about opportunity, mentorship, encouragement and hope. Because there is a difference between relief and development. Relief helps somebody through today. Development increases their capacity to handle tomorrow,” the Minister said.

The launch also featured special remarks from Professor Dr Densil A. Williams, Principal of The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus; Mrs Keisha Johnson, Director, Donor & Partnership Management at the National Education Trust (NET); Dr Vinnette Malcolm, Principal of Sheffield Primary School; Mr Damian Crawford, Opposition Spokesperson, Education and Early Childhood Development; and Ms Kennecy Davidson, Acting Chief Education Officer responsible for Guidance and Counselling, who attended on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr Kasan Troupe.

A key component of the launch was the presentation of scholarships to students under the beyond the backpack programme. The event also included video testimonials from scholarship recipients, highlighting the experiences and aspirations of the young beneficiaries.

The programme further recognised the contribution of sponsors and partners whose support is helping to expand opportunities for students in underserved communities through educational support, mentorship, leadership development, community outreach and strategic partnerships.

The organisation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded on more than 40 years of collective nonprofit leadership experience. Its mission is to improve the lives of residents in underserved communities by mobilising individuals, families and businesses to contribute to community development.

The beyond the backpack programme is guided by the theme “Removing Barriers. Unlocking Potential. Transforming Futures.” GHN says the initiative reflects its commitment to ensuring that students are seen, valued and supported throughout their educational journey.

“The country grows when the people grow. And I believe Jamaica itself needs a stronger growth mindset,” Seiveright said.

The launch programme included an auction presented by Romaine McNeil (ROMAINECREATES), a special acknowledgement of sponsors and partners, scholarship presentations and fellowship among stakeholders.

Seiveright was the winning bidder for the auction, making a contribution of US$1,050.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen opportunities for Jamaica’s children and support their development as future contributors to the country’s social and economic advancement.