Jamaica hosted a landmark gathering of over 220 children, researchers, educators, and policymakers for the 20th Annual Caribbean Child Research Conference (CCRC) as regional recovery efforts accelerate following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. The event, convened at The University of the West Indies Regional Headquarters, issued a powerful regional mandate prioritizing children’s needs in disaster recovery and long-term development strategies.
Under the theme ‘Leaving No Child Behind: Bridging Gaps for Marginalised Children in the Caribbean’, the conference emphasized equity and child participation frameworks critically needed after October’s hurricane disrupted communities across the island nation. The gathering featured three competitive showcases celebrating young Caribbean researchers and writers, with Jamaican student Jihan Gidwani of Heinz Simonitisch School securing top honors in the essay category. Trinidad and Tobago participants Jeremel Job (Bishop’s High School) and Aameliah Ramiah (Esperanza Presbyterian Primary School) prevailed in research and poetry competitions respectively.
Conference Chair Professor Aldrie Henry-Lee reinforced the event’s mission amid ongoing challenges: ‘The CCRC remains the region’s leading platform for research, dialogue, and advocacy focused on improving the lives of Caribbean children and youth. Our deliberations this year are especially important as we advocate for systems that safeguard children’s rights.’ Henry-Lee extended solidarity to hurricane-affected communities, particularly children experiencing disrupted education and daily routines.
UNICEF Representative for Jamaica and the Eastern Caribbean Olga Isaza highlighted the conference’s unique approach to centering children’s perspectives: ‘This conference has translated the Convention on the Rights of the Child into lived reality by ensuring children not only learn about their rights but also speak for themselves.’ Isaza emphasized that sustainable recovery requires positioning youth at the core of planning, decision-making, and investment strategies, noting UNICEF’s continued support for restoring child-focused services including education, healthcare, nutrition, and psychosocial support.
The conference featured youth-led presentations addressing climate change, educational equity, mental health, justice reform, and child well-being. Participants engaged in practical hurricane relief efforts on the second day, delivering care packages and educational materials to Great Faith Basic School in St. Ann while establishing a Safe Relaxation Corner to support emotional recovery. The 20th anniversary conclave culminated in a renewed regional commitment to amplifying children’s voices, strengthening protective systems, and advancing rights-based development across the Caribbean.