NET targets power gaps as schools remain in the dark after Melissa

Dozens of schools still without electricity months after Hurricane Melissa are now being targeted for emergency support as the National Education Trust (NET) moves to plug critical gaps with the distribution of generators.

The agency is compiling a list of institutions still in the dark and in urgent need of backup power following the storm late last year.

Students at several schools in Hanover and Westmoreland – two of the parishes hardest hit – are among those most affected, according to NET Executive Director Latoya Harris-Ghartey.

Her comments followed Tuesday’s official handover of 20 new generators donated by the MSC Foundation, with support from MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company Jamaica Limited.

The generators are currently in the custody of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management and will be distributed to schools through the NET.

“We already know some of them (schools), but we are currently conducting assessments and updates. Another partner had committed to delivering some generators, and we are in the process of cross-checking to ensure there is no duplication,” Harris-Ghartey said.

“There are still some schools, particularly in Hanover, that are without power. Also in areas of Westmoreland, there are power surges and other electricity issues. So this will bring some administrative normalcy in abnormal times,” she added, noting that despite a full resumption of classes, some institutions are still operating in emergency mode.

The official handover ceremony was held on the lawns of the NET building on Arnold Road in Kingston.

CHALLENGES

Harris-Ghartey also explained that while construction repairs are advanced at most of the hardest-hit schools, access to materials and labour, along with recent adverse weather, has slowed completion.

“There are some schools nearing completion while others are still in the rebuilding phase,” she told The Gleaner. “In some cases, only roofing repairs are needed, but in others, entire structures – including classrooms – have to be rebuilt. That is the phase we are now moving into – a more medium-term recovery.”

While the handover occurred, miles away in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, another recovery initiative was also being kickstarted. The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Post-Melissa Extra Lesson Prep Programme is designed to provide targeted academic support for Primary Exit Profile and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate students preparing for upcoming examinations, particularly those from the most severely affected schools.

“They will be conducting extra lessons for four high schools in St Elizabeth and three in Westmoreland, while also providing additional support to students in those areas,” Harris-Ghartey said.

“They (JPS) are supporting meal preparation, facilitators in specialist subjects, printing materials and stationery, and other resources to ensure students get the help they need.”

corey.robinson@gleanerjm.com