Giving Tuesday: Empowering Dreams, Transforming Lives – The National Education Trust Joins a Global Movement of Generosity

Kingston, Jamaica: On December 3, 2024, the National Education Trust (NET) joins the world in celebrating Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity that inspires millions of people to support causes close to their hearts. This day is not just about donations; it’s about empowering communities, fueling dreams and creating lasting change for those who need it most.

As part of this global initiative, NET proudly stands united with the worldwide movement that celebrates the spirit of giving, generosity and hope. Giving Tuesday serves as a powerful reminder that through collective action, we can transform lives—especially the lives of our Jamaican children.

“At NET, we are deeply committed to investing in education and creating opportunities for all children,” said Mrs. Latoya Harris Ghartey, Executive Director of the National Education Trust. “This Giving Tuesday, we are reminded that, when we give, we are helping to build brighter futures for our young people. Every donation, every gesture of kindness, helps pave the way for success and prosperity in their lives” she said.

In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, the National Education Trust (NET) hosted a Public Awareness Initiative titled “Pop for Prizes, Pledge for Dreams” in Half-Way Tree. This engaging and interactive activity invited members of the public to pop balloons, revealing either a pledge to support education or a chance to win a prize. The initiative provided participants with a creative and meaningful way to contribute to Jamaica’s educational development—whether through donations, school supplies, or pledges to volunteer their time.

To further amplify awareness of this global initiative, NET secured an interview with SunCity 104.9 FM Radio on Tuesday, 3 December 2024. The interview featured Ms. Keisha Johnson, Donor & Partnership Director at NET, who eloquently shared insights about NET’s purpose and mission. She highlighted why businesses and individuals should “Check NET First” when considering opportunities to give back. Ms. Johnson’s thoughtful commentary underscored the vital role of community involvement in transforming the education landscape, aligning perfectly with the spirit of Giving Tuesday.

A Global Movement with Local Impact

Giving Tuesday, recognized globally on December 3 this year, isn’t just about monetary contributions. It’s about inspiring people to give in whatever way they can, whether it’s time, resources, or skills. The National Education Trust fully embraces the purpose of this global movement and sees it as an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of investing in the education sector to secure a brighter future for the children of Jamaica.

Join Us in Making a Difference

The National Education Trust calls on individuals, businesses and organisations to continue the spirit of Giving Tuesday throughout the year. Together, we can provide children with the tools they need to succeed in life. Whether it’s through financial contributions, educational materials, or volunteer work, every effort helps.

For more information on how you can support the National Education Trust and contribute to the educational development of Jamaica, please visit our website at www.net.org.jm, email us at info@net.org.jm, or contact us by telephone at (876) 967-9007.

Tune In! NET Talks Giving Tuesday on Suncity Radio

Today, December 3, is observed globally as Giving Tuesday, a movement that inspires generosity and highlights the power of giving back. At the National Education Trust (NET), we are proud to join this global initiative with several public relations activities designed to increase awareness about our work and encourage support for our mission.
Join Keisha Johnson, Director of Donor & Partnership Management at the National Education Trust (NET), for an in-depth discussion about our mission and the global impact of #GivingTuesday!
📅 Tuesday, December 3
🕘 9:00 AM
📍 Suncity Radio 104.9 FM

Discover how you can make a difference for Jamaica’s children and learn about the exciting initiatives NET has planned for this special day of generosity. Don’t miss it!

ARC and NET Collaborate to Rebuild Bull Savannah Primary & Infant

ARC Manufacturing Limited (ARC) has partnered with the National Education Trust (NET) to rebuild Bull Savannah Primary and Infant School in St. Elizabeth. This collaboration aims to restore the school’s facilities, which were severely damaged during the passage of Hurricane Beryl, for the reopening of the new school year. The signing of the Letter of Intent took place on Monday, August 5, at the NET’s office, located at the Caenwood Centre on Arnold Road, Kingston.

ARC is donating $12.5 Million to fund the restoration of the school’s roofing of the administrative block, canteen block and the Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6 blocks. The roofing repairs are part of a larger initiative by ARC to rebuild and restore the school, with a budget commitment of $25 Million. The restoration plan has been officially accepted by the Ministry of Education and Youth (MoEY) and the school administrators. Reconstruction work has already begun and is expected to be completed before the start of the new school term on August 26, 2024.

Norman Horne, Executive Chairman of ARC, who attended Bull Savannah Primary and Infant along with his grandmother, mother and siblings, felt compelled to urgently respond to the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl due to his family’s deep connection to the community and the school.

He stated, “We, as past students, want to take a serious look back at Bull Savannah to see how we can help to develop the school into a world-class educational institution.”

Under the agreement, NET will provide technical assistance and project management services for the project. NET is a Registered Charitable Organisation and an agency of the MoEY, tasked with mobilising financial resources for the education sector. Since its inception in 2010, NET has been pivotal in implementing infrastructure development projects for schools and is the lead entity for the implementation of the infrastructure pillar under the Transforming Education for National Development (TREND) programme.

Latoya Harris-Ghartey, Executive Director of NET, said, “This partnership is a testament to the power of community and the importance of investing in our educational institutions. By restoring Bull Savannah Primary and Infant, we are not only rebuilding a structure but also renewing hope and opportunities for the students and the entire community. We are deeply grateful for ARC’s generous support and commitment to education.”

Harris-Ghartey also encouraged other past students who are desirous of helping their schools to recover from Hurricane Beryl to contact NET.

She said, “We urge all past students and community members to join us in our efforts to rebuild and support our schools. Your contributions, no matter how small, can make a significant impact on the lives of our young learners and the future of our communities.”

Colin Cameron, Principal of Bull Savannah Primary and Infant, expressed joy at the restoration efforts.

“We are deeply grateful for Mr. Horne and the contribution by ARC Manufacturing, along with the support of the National Education Trust,” Cameron said.

He added, “These restoration efforts will significantly benefit our school, which serves a student population of 502.”