Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says with the addition of new classrooms in the early-childhood sector by the administration, more children will have access to education without paying fees.

He said that in keeping with the constitutional provision, which guarantees children access to pre-primary education, tuition free, the Government has been expanding early-childhood spaces to ensure that quality accommodation is available for children in public institutions.

“The students who are not able to afford it (fees), should be able to find space where they can develop their early-childhood skills without having to worry about fees,” the PM said.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness (right), interacts with students at the Four Campbell’s Academy, on Booby Drive, in his West Central St. Andrew Constituency,on September 27. Mr. Holness presented books and other educational materials to the school, donated by the Palmyra Foundation.

Speaking with JIS News, following the presentation of books to students at the Four Campbell’s Academy, on Booby Drive, in his West Central St. Andrew constituency, on September 27, Mr. Holness said with the ongoing increase in early-childhood spaces, absenteeism should decrease, as parents will face less challenges in paying fees.

The Prime Minister said many of the early-childhood schools that are operated privately and by the community will have to find some “facilitation in a programme where the Government assists in the provision of the early-childhood service”.

Mr. Holness said the Palmyra Foundation, which donated the books, is providing well-placed support to the foundation of education at the early-childhood level.

“I want to thank the Foundation, and encourage other corporate citizens to make their contribution to education,” the Prime Minister said.

For her part, Principal of the school, Alicia Robinson, said books are available for all of her 80 students.

“I am really grateful (for the donation). This is another step to enhance the children’s reading level. The children are very happy, and I am sure they will make good use of the books,” Miss Robinson said.

Source: Jamaica Information Service