Bustamante High School is celebrating a major milestone in its commitment to academic excellence with the official opening of two state-of-the-art literacy and numeracy laboratories, brought to life through the refurbishment of two classrooms.
The labs, which were renovated over the past two months by Jamalco, are outfitted with computers, smart televisions, air-conditioning units, new cupboards, and educational materials designed to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills. The facilities are also fully secured to prevent vandalism.
The project was born out of discussions following the devastating fire that damaged the school’s IT lab in late 2024. During Jamalco’s Corporate Services team visit, school leaders highlighted the urgent need to address low literacy and numeracy rates among students. Responding to this call, Jamalco partnered with the school to create dedicated spaces where students with educational challenges can receive focused support to improve learning outcomes.
Principal Wayne Evans described the new labs as a beacon of hope. “Our students struggle daily with literacy and numeracy, and our teachers work tirelessly to bring them up to national standards. These labs now provide a space for targeted interventions, here students who once felt hopeless can gain renewed confidence and purpose, opening the door to brighter futures for themselves and their communities,” he said.
Jamalco’s Managing Director, Marvin Jackson, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to education and community development. “The literacy and numeracy labs are more than rooms with equipment; they are an investment in every student who will pass through them. This initiative reflects our dedication to breaking barriers, strengthening learning outcomes, and equipping the next generation with the tools to succeed. With this investment, we are turning vision into reality and underscoring our belief that every child, regardless of their starting point, deserves the opportunity to master these foundational skills.
Mr Jackson urged students to remain resilient in their educational journeys. “With the right support and resources, you can overcome challenges and achieve greatness. At Jamalco, we remain committed to making a positive impact in the lives of students and the communities we serve.”
Vice Principal Beverly Smith expressed gratitude on behalf of the school community, noting that the investment was a clear recognition of the potential in every child. “Jamalco has demonstrated that they believe every child can learn, regardless of where they are academically,” she said.
Representing the Ministry of Education, Education Officer Omar Allen commended the initiative and urged students and teachers to maximise the opportunity. “Experiment, innovate, and push the boundaries of what is possible. This partnership between the Ministry of Education and corporate Jamaica shows what can be achieved when resources and expertise are combined to expand opportunities for our students,” he encouraged.
