The Jamaican government is moving forward with ambitious plans to establish educational institutions aimed at bolstering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education across the island.

Spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, the initiatives include the development of six STEM Schools and one STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Academy.

Dr. Chang confirmed that preparations for the STEAM Academy in Montego Bay are well underway.

With land secured and funding allocated by the Ministry of Finance, construction is poised to commence pending final scheduling from the Ministry of Education and Youth by year-end.

Highlighting the imminent launch of the first STEM School in Portmore, St. Catherine, Dr. Chang emphasized the government's commitment to expanding educational opportunities in the STEM disciplines.

The University of Technology (UTech) Western Campus recently inaugurated its first STEM Summer camp in Montego Bay, St. James.

This initiative, aimed at nurturing STEM interest among youth, drew participants from Hanover, Trelawny, and St. James for a series of engaging activities.

Oral Heaven, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), underscored Jamaica's designation as a 'STEM island'.

He emphasized the potential economic benefits and global recognition stemming from increased STEM investments and innovation hubs.

Dr. Chang reaffirmed the government's commitment to leveraging Montego Bay's rich STEM legacy to attract further investments.

He stressed the importance of focusing on solutions and harnessing STEM's transformative potential.

The STEM Summer Camp will unfold in two phases, catering to junior and senior participants under the theme 'Think, Collaborate and Innovate to Grow and Be Resilient'. Junior participants will participate from July 8-19, with the senior group following from July 15-26.