Fi We Children Foundation concerned over low university qualification rates

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Fi We Children Foundation (FWCF) has voiced concern over recent reports indicating that only 20 per cent of students who sit Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations each year achieve the minimum five subjects required for entry into most tertiary institutions.The concern follows comments by University of Technology (UTech) President, Dr Kevin Brown, who recently warned of an emerging education crisis. According to media reports, Brown said the low qualification rate presents significant challenges for Jamaica's future workforce and national development.In a statement issued Saturday, FWCF acknowledged recent improvements in examination performance reported by the Ministry of Education but argued that the findings continue to highlight persistent learning gaps affecting thousands of students across the island.“Our direct engagement with students in classrooms has revealed concerning deficiencies in foundational literacy skills, including reading comprehension, spelling and written communication, said Keren Dawson, FWCF youth member and attorney-at-law. “These challenges, if left unaddressed, will continue to limit educational opportunities and social mobility for many young Jamaicans.”To help address the issue, FWCF has been implementing its Help A Child Learn (HaCL) Project, which is funded by international youth non-profit, Peace First. The initiative aims to improve literacy and academic outcomes by connecting students with trained university graduates and community volunteers who commit to providing at least 60 hours of tutoring and educational support.The Foundation is now appealing to university students, recent graduates, educators and other civic-minded Jamaicans to volunteer and assist in bridging the learning gap affecting vulnerable children nationwide.“Every child deserves the opportunity to read confidently, succeed academically and reach their full potential,” Dawson added. “One volunteer can make a life-changing difference.”FWCF maintained that strengthening literacy and foundational learning skills is essential to improving educational outcomes, increasing participation in tertiary education and ensuring that no child is left behind.Individuals interested in volunteering with the Help A Child Learn Project are encouraged to contact the Fi We Children Foundation for additional information.