High schools in western Jamaica working to address Internet issues as exams approach

Some high schools across western Jamaica are facing challenges with internet access, raising concerns about the delivery of upcoming online examinations.

President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), Mark Malabver, said principals in the region are exploring alternative options as connectivity issues persist.

“Principals in western Jamaica are seeking alternatives to regular internet access. They are looking at Starlink to determine how feasible that will be. Even then, there are likely to be challenges in relation to signal strength,” Malabver said.

The issue is of particular concern as subjects such as Music and Technical Drawing are scheduled to be administered online.

Leighton Johnson, immediate past president of the JTA and principal of Muschett High School, said while Starlink is being considered, it may not fully address the problem.

“It can only adequately support a limited number of connections. What I plan to do is convert a lab during exams to allow for maximum signal strength while students are connected,” Johnson explained.

Despite the challenges, Malabver expressed optimism that the situation will improve ahead of the examination period.

“There is enough time for the internet providers to be back on stream,” he said.

- Leon Jackson

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