Kingston, Jamaica – Over $500 million in back-to-school aid is being disbursed across Jamaica as the government rolls out a massive support package for students on the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH).
With the new school year fast approaching, 106,590 students under PATH are set to receive back-to-school grants on top of their regular payments — a much-needed financial lifeline for thousands of families.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security confirmed that $535 million has been set aside for this year’s disbursement — a substantial increase over last year’s total, reflecting the deepening cost of education and rising financial strain on Jamaica’s most vulnerable.
PAYMENTS ROLLING OUT NOW
Payouts officially began August 19 and will continue until September 2, with extra collection days scheduled for September 4 and 5 to ensure no one is left behind.
“This is critical support to help parents prepare for back-to-school expenses,” said Audrey Deer-Williams, Chief Technical Director in charge of Social Security. “Many of these families are among the poorest in the country. This boost is about easing the burden.”
BIGGER GRANTS FOR 2025/26
This year, PATH is delivering more money across the board:
- All PATH education grants have increased by $5,000 to $10,000
- Tertiary bursary (for university students) jumps 50% – from $100,000 to $150,000
- Renewable each year, but students must keep a GPA of 2.5 or higher
Other major support includes:
- $20,000 one-time grant for students sitting CSEC subjects
- $25,000 for those entering skills training programmes
- $35,000 for students doing CAPE units
- $40,000 for students pursuing diplomas or associate degrees
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
The Ministry confirmed that applications for PATH’s education bursaries and grants are now open.
- Tertiary bursary: August to October
- Post-secondary grants: Two windows – August to October, and January to March
“We know preparing for school is stressful,” Deer-Williams said. “We are stepping in to provide real, direct support to those who need it most.”
This isn’t just assistance — this is investment in Jamaica’s future. From grade school to university, PATH continues to be a critical force in keeping students in school, focused, and funded.
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