KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MOESYI) has officially launched the 2026 edition of Child Month, placing youth mental wellness and holistic development at the center of this year’s national campaign.
Framed around the theme “Prioritise Our Children’s Mental Health: Strong Minds, Safer Future,” the month-long initiative is designed to foster emotional resilience, boost self-awareness among young people, and cultivate safe, supportive spaces for children across every region of the island nation.
The official launch kicked off last Friday at MOESYI’s Kingston headquarters with a “Prayer and Praise: Child Month Blast-off” event, which drew education stakeholders, community leaders, and student representatives. Attendees gathered to affirm a shared, cross-sector commitment to advancing children’s overall well-being, according to an official statement from the ministry.
Over the course of May, MOESYI and its partner agencies will roll out a full slate of programming tailored to engage children, caregivers, educators, and community partners. The schedule includes interactive skill-building workshops, public recognition programs celebrating young people’s achievements, and targeted community outreach efforts. Beyond raising awareness, the activities are structured to uplift children’s rights, reinforce support systems, and nurture healthy mental, emotional, and social growth.
Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, Jamaica’s Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, issued a public call for nationwide participation in the campaign. “Jamaica’s future depends on how we invest in our children today. This year, we are prioritising mental health because strong minds build safer communities. I urge all Jamaicans to help create environments where children feel supported and empowered,” Dixon said during the launch.
To expand the reach of child protection and wellness efforts, the ministry is also advancing inclusive policies and deepening cross-sector partnerships with public health agencies, education institutions, and local community organizations. Dr Kasan Troupe, Permanent Secretary at MOESYI, reaffirmed the government’s long-term commitment to whole-child development in her remarks.
“We are committed to holistic child development – supporting both achievement and well-being – so every child can grow, succeed and reach their full potential,” Troupe said.
MOESYI is encouraging all schools, household caregivers, and community groups to take active part in Child Month activities, emphasizing that coordinated collective action is the foundation for nurturing a generation of resilient, confident, and capable young Jamaicans.