JPS Launches Post-Melissa Extra Lessons Programme to Support Students in Western Jamaica

(Kingston – April 8, 2026) JPS has launched its Post-Melissa Extra Lessons Exam Preparation Programme, a targeted educational intervention designed to support students in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth following the impact of Hurricane Melissa on October 28, 2025.

The initiative, valued at around J$10 million, sees JPS investing close to J$7 million, with several other partners coming on board to the tune of approximately J$3 million.

The hurricane caused significant infrastructural damage to schools, disrupted teaching schedules, and resulted in prolonged power outages, particularly in western parishes. As a result, thousands of students lost critical instructional time ahead of key national examinations.

In response, JPS has devised and implemented a four-week programme aimed at bridging the learning gap for 1,000 students across 17 schools, including 7 high schools and 10 primary institutions. The initiative provides structured extra lessons in core subject areas such as Mathematics and English Language, along with additional support to help restore students’ confidence and readiness for the upcoming Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exams.

To guarantee uninterrupted participation of the students in the programme, the energy company and its partners have made the requisite arrangements including transportation for some students, as well as the provision of meals and stationery.

Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Commercial at JPS, Pia Baker, emphasized the company’s commitment to national development: “Today’s launch is a reflection of our broader commitment to national development through education. As part of the last mile of restoration, we are not just investing in grid modernization and providing community relief; we are also powering the progress of our great people towards a great future, through education.”

The programme will be delivered by qualified teachers through structured sessions, with a stipend provided for the facilitators. Primary-level students will focus on Mathematics, English, and Ability Tests, while high school students will receive support in Mathematics, English Language, Science, and one additional subject.

Manager of Community Renewal at JPS, Marilyn McDonald, noted that the initiative was carefully coordinated with input from key stakeholders in the education sector, including Regional Directors, Education Officers, and school principals.

Director of Regional Education Services (Region 5), Susan Nelson-Smith, welcomed the partnership: “We have always maintained that education is not the solo journey for the Ministry alone to traverse. It is a national imperative that requires the collective energy of the public and private sector.” She continued: “Today, we see that collective energy in action. JPS brings a legacy of powering Jamaica. Through this programme, they are quite literally, powering the intellectual capacity of our youth.”

The initiative is supported by several partners, including  KFC, Popeyes, Little Caesars, Wisynco, Sunshine Snacks, Digicel Foundation, Jamaica Broilers, CB Foods, Sangster’s Book Stores, Food For The Poor,  Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) Community Renewal Programme, National Education Trust (NET), M-POWA, CRP, who have contributed to meals, supplies, and overall programme delivery.