The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information has embarked on a bold initiative to modernise Jamaica’s secondary education sector, starting with the build-out of specialised, state-of-the-art laboratories in technical high schools. Minister of Education, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, has confirmed that this is only the beginning, with all secondary-level institutions slated to benefit in the coming years.

“We start this year with the 15 technical high schools and then every year after, we’re going to be doing more of these state-of-the-art labs,”
 — Minister Dana Morris Dixon

Speaking at a Primary Exit Profile (PEP) awards dinner hosted by the Most Hon. Juliet Holness, Member of Parliament for St. Andrew East Rural, the Minister emphasised that this initiative reflects the Government’s forward-thinking visionfor Jamaica’s youth.

“These are not normal things we’re doing, because we’re thinking bigger for our children. The world is changing and we believe our children should be there,” she said.

Preparing Students for a Technology-Driven Future

The labs are being designed to give students hands-on experience in specialised and emerging fields such as:Digital Construction, Mechatronics, Green Technology, Robotics

These upgrades will not only strengthen technical competencies but also prepare students for a rapidly evolving global workforce where automation, sustainability, and innovation are key drivers.

Key Developments Include:

●      Dunoon Technical High (Kingston): A new Digital Construction Lab, integrating the latest technology in the construction industry.

●      Herbert Morrison Technical High (St. James): A Mechatronics Lab, combining mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to support smart manufacturing and automation skills.

●      Marcus Garvey Technical High (St. Ann): A Green Technology Lab focusing on renewable energy solutions such as solar technology and rainwater harvesting.

●      St. Mary Technical High: A Robotics Lab dedicated to industrial controls and automation systems.

Strategic Vision and Long-Term Impact

Minister Morris Dixon reiterated that every secondary school will ultimately benefit, with phased rollouts ensuring sustainable implementation. This is part of a wider government strategy to equip Jamaica’s next generation with the skills and mindset to excel in high-demand industries.

The National Council on Education supports this vision, recognising that modern, well-equipped learning environments are central to improving educational outcomes and national competitiveness.

 Source: https://moey.gov.jm/upgrading-of-technical-high-school-labs-just-a-start/#:~:text=Minister%20of%20Education%2C%20Skills%2C%20Youth,art%20facilities