Three decades after it was established to help tackle poverty and social deprivation in vulnerable communities across the country, the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) is doubling down on rural resilience, public safety, environment, and human capital development as it enters its fourth decade. Managing Director Omar Sweeney said JSIF will continue directing resources towards underserved communities while broadening its contribution to agriculture, community tourism, climate resilience, and other areas critical to national development. “We intend to continue with that focus on rural livelihoods and resilience, as well as citizen security, training, and human capital development.

By breaking down financial, physical, and informational barriers, JSIF is delivering safe, legal grid access to the Jamaicans who need it most.

Staff and 132 students at Kendal Primary School in Hanover are celebrating a new J$146.5-million school building, funded by the government and the Caribbean Development Bank. The new facility, which will also serve as a community space, was officially handed over last Thursday at a ceremony on the school grounds. It replaces the school’s former run-down and dilapidated structure, which was demolished, forcing students and teachers to hold classes in two churches in the community.