MOE’s Virtual Town Hall Ahead Of Full Face To Face Learning

Among the issues highlighted at the Education Ministry’s virtual Town Hall just ahead of the full return to face to face learning, Friday were transportation, the Covid-19 protocols and updates regarding programs implemented during the pandemic. Prime Minister Andrew Holness had announced the resumption of traditional learning following lower numbers of deaths, covid infections and hospitalizations. Students are set to return to the physical classroom on Monday.

On Friday evening stakeholders in the education ministry assembled for a virtual town hall ahead of the full resumption of face to face learning set for Monday march 7. Corporate Communications Manager at the JUTC, Cecil Thoms outlined the approach that will be taken by the company as students travel, amid concerns surrounding transportation and an expected large turnout of students. Thoms also notes that a number of the buses that were out of service will be used.

He’s also anticipating the government’s provision of 50 additional buses by the last quarter of this year. Thoms says the bus company has also partnered with sub franchise operators, adding the fares are structured differently. Meanwhile, since the ministry’s launch of the yard to yard initiative in late 2021, approximately 40,000 students have been re-engaged. 

Education Minister Fayval Williams announced that the ministry will be providing additional test kits and masks. She also sought to address concerns parents may have as it relates to social distancing.