Maulton Campbell, principal of Kingston Technical High School, says he is anticipating an improved academic performance from his students over the next few months.

The seasoned educator, along with his team of dedicated teachers, has been focused on bolstering the foundational skills of their students through targeted programmes. 

These efforts received a much-appreciated boost with the start of Project STAR’s School Education and Empowerment Programme at the institution at the end of March. 

The initiative is being financed by the Scotia Foundation, as part of its support of Project STAR. J$7 million has been earmarked to be invested in the programme annually for three years starting this year. The programme aims to improve the literacy, numeracy and social skills of students through tailored interventions that impact not only students, but also their teachers, parents and/or guardians. 

Through the programme, KTHS will be able to hire additional academic specialists. This support will ensure students can progress confidently through high school while bridging the gaps that existing resources cannot fully address.

The programme targets students in grades 9 and 10, many of whom entered high school with below-grade-level reading skills and difficulties in comprehension, vocabulary, and general literacy. By providing targeted support, the initiative ensures that these students receive the help they need to matriculate to the next level successfully. 

“This initiative is tackling a critical underlying issue of underperformance in our schools – illiteracy,” Campbell shared. “With the Scotia Foundation’s commitment to our students who need that extra push, we are able to continue our literacy intervention efforts to bring these students up to standard.” 

Highlighting the importance of corporate support, he added that specialized programmes are always needed at the school, and through funding and sponsorship, KTHS can provide more opportunities for its students to succeed. 

The programme was unveiled to students and staff during the school’s recent Jamaica Day celebrations. Speaking at the event, Yanique Forbes-Patrick, vice president of public affairs and communications at Scotiabank, emphasised the bank’s dedication to community upliftment and its partnership with Project STAR. 

“We believe in the power of education to transform lives. This programme is an investment in the future of these students, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate their academic and professional journeys. At Scotia, we are proud to be a part of strengthening Kingston Technical High School and building the resilience of the students and the institution for years to come,” said Forbes-Patrick.

Scotia Foundation’s donation toward Project STAR’s Student Education and Empowerment Programme will also support the academic capabilities of students at the Holy Family Primary School. 

Project STAR partnership advisor Kalando Wilmoth underscored the impact of Scotiabank’s continued support. 

“Scotia has been a legacy donor for Project STAR, and through this donation, the Scotia Foundation is helping us drive transformation in five communities. For Kingston Technical and Holy Family Primary School, this initiative benefits not only students but also staff and parents. Children and school-based support are key pillars in our mission to create meaningful change in Jamaica,” he said.

The Student Education and Empowerment Programme got underway at Holy Family Primary in February while the Kingston Technical component of the programme began with teacher sensitisation and training on March 31.

Approximately 70 families are projected to be positively impacted by the three-year programme.