KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a transformative move to enhance access to education, the Government of Japan has stepped in to address a long-standing transportation crisis affecting rural Jamaican students. Through its Grassroots Human Security Project, Japan has provided grant funding of $28.8 million to secure three school buses, offering a renewed sense of hope to underprivileged communities.
The grant, signed on Wednesday, will facilitate the acquisition of two 29-seater Toyota Coaster buses and one 15-seater bus, ensuring that students from Rest Primary and Infant School, Bustamante High School in Clarendon, and Port Antonio Primary School in Portland no longer struggle to reach their classrooms.
For years, the absence of reliable transportation has been a major barrier to education in these rural areas. Principal Sandra Smith of Rest Primary and Infant School highlighted the deep impact of this issue, revealing that many students miss school simply because their families cannot afford daily bus fare.
“Our students face an uphill battle when it comes to getting to school. Some families have no income, and transportation in our community is limited. This bus is more than just a vehicle—it’s a bridge to education, ensuring our children don’t fall behind due to circumstances beyond their control,” Smith said.
The donation is expected to drastically improve school attendance rates while also enabling students to participate in extracurricular activities, sports meets, and educational field trips that were once out of reach.
Board Chair of Port Antonio Primary School, Paulette Brimm-Smith, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that access to education should not be determined by geography or financial standing.
“This isn’t just about transportation; it’s about equity. Too often, children in rural areas miss out on opportunities that their urban counterparts take for granted. This initiative is a step towards leveling the playing field,” she said.
Bustamante High School’s Vice Chair, Delinda Chablal, expressed gratitude for what she described as a “priceless gift” that will open doors to experiences beyond the classroom.
“Education extends beyond textbooks. With this bus, we can take students on field trips, college visits, and career exposure opportunities. This investment in their future will have a ripple effect on the entire community,” Chablal noted.
Japan’s commitment to grassroots development continues to create meaningful change across Jamaica, reinforcing the country’s dedication to fostering human security through strategic partnerships. The newly secured buses are set to begin operations next term, ensuring that no child in these communities is left behind due to lack of transportation.
