A blanket approach to recovery will not work
Published:Wednesday | November 12, 2025 | 12:11 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
The Government of Jamaica has urged the reopening of schools and the restart of commercial activities. This is a necessary step towards rebuilding national resilience. It’s clear that the intention is to help the country recover quickly and prevent extended periods of unemployment. Jamaica’s economy depends heavily on tourism and the many jobs it supports, so restarting activity is critical.
That said, we must acknowledge that the effects of Hurricane Melissa were not the same for everyone. Some communities were hit far harder than others, and so a blanket approach to recovery will not work. What is needed now is a coordinated plan that brings together social workers, counsellors, and representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce to provide targeted help to the areas most affected, particularly in the western parishes.
While it makes sense to reopen schools, we should remember that several institutions are still being used as emergency shelters or have suffered significant damage. The Ministry of Education could consider a phased reopening strategy. For example, at the early childhood level, priority could go to students preparing to move up to primary school. At the primary level, the focus might be on grades four to six, and at the secondary level, on students in grades 10 and 11 who are preparing for major exams such as CSEC and CAPE.
The ministry could also dedicate the first week of reopening to debriefing and emotional recovery sessions for students and teachers. Social workers and counsellors can help restore a sense of stability and normality. A partnership with local universities could further strengthen this effort, final-year tertiary students in social work, psychology, or counselling programmes could assist, under supervision, as part of their practicum experience.
On the economic front, small and medium-sized businesses need urgent assistance. The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, in collaboration with the private sector, should implement recovery programmes offering low-interest loans, temporary tax relief, grants, and guidance on business continuity. Rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa must go beyond physical structures — it must restore confidence, opportunity, and hope.
NADINE BELL