Student Loan Boost

The Government says it plans to increase the pool of funds available through the Students Loan Bureau, to ensure that students from poor families can have access to tertiary education.



The Prime Minister Bruce Golding said he is also considering waiving some of the repayment, if students pursue studies in areas where the skills level in Jamaica is low.



The repayments might also be waived if loan recipients commit to working in the areas where there are not enough qualified persons.



Mr. Golding is again calling for a study of the real market cost of educating children at all levels in Jamaica.



He says this will properly determine the extent of the government’s contribution.



Meanwhile, Education Minister Andrew Holness says plans are far advanced for the setting up of the Jamaica Teaching Council and the National Inspectorate.



Both will serve as standards and regulating agencies in the education system.