Grade six PEP scores exceed targets in three subjects after hurricane disruption

Grade six students across Jamaica surpassed national performance targets in three of four assessed areas on the 2026 Primary Exit Profile examinations, the Ministry of Education reported on Monday, 22 June 2026, despite widespread disruption from Hurricane Melissa.

Literacy recorded 79 percent mastery, numeracy 75 percent, and language arts 72 percent proficiency. Mathematics reached 69 percent, one percentage point below the national target. Education Minister Dr. Dina Morris Dixon said the results reflected targeted interventions even though seven parishes were significantly affected, with 440 schools and 12,860 students—about one third of those who sat the exam—severely impacted by the storm.

This year also marked the first assessment of literacy and numeracy at grade six, establishing a national baseline for future tracking. The ministry said roughly 90 percent of students were placed at a school of their choice, while about 9.5 percent were assigned by proximity.

Jamaica Teachers' Association President Mark Malabour urged parents and students not to equate secondary school placement with future success, stressing that literacy, numeracy, and overall scores matter more than which high school a child attends. Counseling psychologist Dr. Patrice Charles-King cautioned parents against shaming children over results or placements, saying disappointed students need encouragement rather than criticism.

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness said Cabinet Minister Dr. Andrew Wheatley retains his confidence following an Integrity Commission report into his financial affairs. Speaking on Cliff Hughes Online, Holness described recommended charges as serious but noted Wheatley has not yet been charged and said he expects a direct discussion with the minister. Professor Emeritus of Government Trevor Monroe and National Integrity Action Principal Director Dr. Gavin Myers argued Wheatley should step aside until the matter is cleared up.

The St. Andrew North Police Division recorded zero murders during the first quarter of 2026, while the wider Area 5 recorded a 60 percent reduction in major crimes, according to police commanders.

The People's National Party Women's Movement, led by Patricia Duncan Sutherland, demanded a clear government explanation for Jamaica's inclusion among more than 20 countries accepting deportees under United States third-country national arrangements, citing 2025 statements by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Alvin McLean Jr., president of the Family Unification and Resettlement Initiative Fury, raised concerns about resources and infrastructure to manage incoming populations.

The Jamaica Urban Transit Company is offering a $1 million reward for information leading to the identification of a man suspected of deliberately setting fire to a compressed natural gas bus at the Spanish Town terminal in St. Catherine on 30 May 2026. Managing Director Owen Ellington said damage was valued at approximately US$200,000.

The Norman Manley Law School launched a J$55 million alumni giving campaign and secured more than J$3 million in commitments on launch night to support scholarships, mentorship, and student development.