UNESCO Delivers Financial Assistance to 100 Student Teachers Affected by Hurricane Melissa

On 2 February 2026, the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean participated in a symbolic ceremony at Sam Sharpe Teacher's College in Montego Bay, Jamaica, marking the delivery of financial assistance to 100 student teachers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Women represented 90 per cent of the beneficiaries, underscoring the gendered impact of the disaster on access to teacher training.

Sam Sharpe Teacher's College is the only one of Jamaica's eight teacher-training institutions located in the area most severely affected by the hurricane. With more than 800 students enrolled, nearly half of them between 18 and 25 years old, the College plays a key role in preparing Jamaica's future educators. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, many student teachers continue to face serious challenges that threaten their ability to complete their studies.

The cash grants provided by UNESCO were intended to cover essential needs such as accommodation, learning materials, and transportation, enabling beneficiaries to continue their training without interruption. Priority was given to student teachers from the parishes most severely affected by the hurricane.