The construction of a new classroom block at Cedric Titus High School in Clark’s Town, Trelawny, is on track following the school’s kick-off meeting, led by the National Education Trust (NET), on January 29.

As part of an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Youth (MoEY), the Primary and Secondary Infrastructure Project (PSIP) will equip Cedric Titus High with four classrooms, a science lab, and an industrial lab, as well as general upgrades to the current infrastructure of the school for the 2024/25 academic year. This is represents an investment of J$220 million.

The project is part of the ongoing transformation of the education sector by the MoEY to eliminate the need for shift systems, significantly reducing the student-to-teacher ratio, and ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes and increased accessibility to superior educational resources for the young minds of our nation.

Stakeholders from NET, the MoEY, Cedric Titus High and Alfrasure Structures & Roofing Limited, the contractor for the construction project, were all in attendance as their respective responsibilities and expectations were discussed. The kick-off meeting also facilitated in-depth discussions on the strategic direction of the project, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the project’s objectives, scope and timelines, ensuring a unified direction for implementation.

Latoya Harris-Ghartey, executive director of NET, said it marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards transforming education.

Harris-Ghartey said: “The meeting provided a platform for the project’s stakeholders to exchange ideas to ensure consensus among all involved parties. NET is pleased with the kick-off meeting as it allowed us to establish a cohesive trajectory going forward, ensuring alignment among stakeholders for a smooth process in the months ahead.”

The newly-appointed principal of Cedric Titus Hig, Joan Higgins, said: “I am filled with immense optimism about the bright future that lies ahead for our institution as a result of the decision to construct a new classroom block. The new block is not merely a physical addition to our school; it symbolises a commitment to progress, growth and a dedication to providing an even better learning environment for our students.”

Following the kick-off meeting, a tour of the site where construction will take place was conducted, led by Dwight Creary, project manager at the NET, who will serve as the project lead. The groundbreaking ceremony for Cedric Titus High takes place on February 13.