Over four decades ago, my political idol Michael Manley advised, “Nothing less than transformation can provide answers to the dilemmas within which we are currently trapped.”

Today, I firmly believe that this statement holds true for Jamaica. 

The People’s National Party (PNP) is committed to social and economic transformation, aiming to create an inclusive economy that benefits the majority of Jamaicans. Our goal is to create a more inclusive society and economy where no Jamaican regardless of their socioeconomic status is left behind, and enabling more Jamaicans to not just have a livable wage but also to achieve financial independence and pursue their dreams.

This, we believe, will address many of the challenges facing our country.

While the macroeconomic indicators of the economy have been positive, the benefits have not reached the majority of Jamaicans. We assert that, at the micro level, our economy is stuck in a low-tech, low-income, low-growth model that frustrates too many citizens. To reverse this, our strategy, when we form the next Government, will focus on technology, innovation, and digital transformation. 

This approach is vital to creating an ecosystem that not only attracts big tech companies with higher-paying jobs but also fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among Jamaicans. Central to achieving this goal will be to transform our education and skills development system on a whole so that no Jamaican is left behind on this journey. I will speak in depth in another article about the People’s National Party and its plan to enable this goal through educational transformation.

To realise this new economy, we must not only speak enthusiastically about technology and innovation but also invest heavily in them, setting clear and measurable targets. Developed countries allocate between three per cent and five per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) to innovation and research and development.

As a developing nation, Jamaica should aim for a three per cent investment in innovation and technology by 2030, translating to one per cent of GDP annually for the next seven years.

A new PNP government would focus on various areas to create this new economy, with a series of opinion pieces highlighting specific strategies.

In this article, we will emphasise a significant investment in research and development (R&D). 

The time has come for Jamaica to become a land of innovation and to not be late adopters and laggards while we wait on other countries to develop modern and more progressive technologies. We would prioritise R&D in areas such as sustainable agriculture and agribusiness, leveraging innovative practices to enhance productivity and contribute to food security.

Additionally, investing in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure could position Jamaica as a leader in clean energy production, fostering economic growth while addressing environmental concerns and reducing dependency on traditional energy sources.

A culture of innovation enhances productivity, efficiency, and the development of cutting-edge industries. R&D acts as a catalyst for job creation and human capital development. By continuously pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology, R&D enables the Jamaican economy to adapt to challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and position for sustained growth.

As Jamaica aims to improve its global competitiveness, the importance of R&D becomes evident. Countries investing substantially in research and innovation enhance their capacity to compete in a knowledge-driven economy. A robust R&D ecosystem signals commitment to progress, attracting talent, capital, and partnerships, ultimately contributing to a sustainable, knowledge-based high-income economy.

Investing in R&D is a long-term commitment, and the People’s National Party believes the benefits could significantly improve our economy, enhancing productivity, raising the standard of living, and creating a sustainable, knowledge-based, high-growth economy.

I believe that the transformative power of innovation and technology, strategically linked with our ingenuity, holds the key to unlocking unprecedented possibilities for the Jamaican economy.

Embracing a forward-looking approach and investing in cutting-edge solutions can propel the nation towards sustainable development, economic diversification, and global competitiveness.

Fostering a culture of innovation not only addresses immediate challenges but also lays the foundation for long-term progress and development.

As technology becomes a driving force in shaping the future, Jamaica’s commitment to harnessing the potential of innovation and technology is not merely an investment in progress but a visionary step towards shaping a brighter, more inclusive, and resilient future for generations to come.

I look forward to sharing my next article regarding the high priority that a Government led by the People’s National Party would place on digital inclusion in helping us to transform the Jamaican economy and society.

Davalle Grant is junior Opposition Spokesperson on commerce, science and technology for the People’s National Party.