Jamaica’s Ministry of Education lauds students for contributions to Emancipendence celebrations

Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information is applauding students, teachers, and school leaders across Jamaica for their outstanding performances and participation in this year’s Emancipation and Independence celebrations.

From the cultural showcase of the Mello-Go-Round to the national pride on display at the Grand Gala and the vibrant displays at the Denbigh Agricultural Show, Jamaica’s schools have once again demonstrated that the island’s heritage, talent, and future are in excellent hands.

Senator, Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and
Information, praised the commitment of the education sector in sustaining Jamaica’s cultural legacy.

“Our students have once again shown the world that Jamaican talent is unmatched. It is the result of visionary teachers, dedicated school leaders, and a national framework that values co-curricular engagement as much as academic achievement. Through events like the Mello-Go-Round, the Grand Gala, and the Denbigh Show, we see our culture come alive and our future leaders emerge,” Minister Morris Dixon said.

These engagements, which merge cultural expression with skills development, continue to play a critical role in nurturing creativity, discipline, and a sense of national identity among the nation’s youth. The Ministry has also commended the work of national partners, to include the lead Ministries: the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Ministry of Agriculture, Mining and Fisheries and their agencies such as the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), and other supporting entities, for providing the opportunities to hone the skills and talents of our students and platforms for them to shine.

Dr. Kasan Troupe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, also expressed pride in the achievements of the schools and the national architecture that enable the development of talents and nurture the preservation of our culture.

“These celebrations are a vivid reminder that education is holistic and that the “A” in STEAM education is alive and well. It shapes not only the mind but also the spirit and character of our students. We are grateful to and specially commend every educator, cultural officer, parent and partner Ministries and agencies that help to keep Jamaica’s heritage vibrant while equipping our young people with the skills and confidence to succeed,” Dr. Troupe said.

The 2025 Emancipendence celebrations have served as both a showcase of talent and a reaffirmation of Jamaica’s cultural pride. They have demonstrated that education goes beyond academics, encompassing the preservation of heritage, the nurturing of creativity, and the shaping of national identity.

The Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to preparing young Jamaicans to be custodians of the nation’s culture and leaders in every sphere of life. With the continued dedication of teachers, school leaders, parents, and partner Ministries, the Ministry will ensure that Jamaica’s traditions remain vibrant while equipping students with the skills, values, and vision to excel in an ever-changing world.