FOLLOWING concerns from parents on social media over the affordability of enrolment packages, which Jamaica Observer checks have shown can run close to $30,000, the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoEYI) has urged public high schools to keep registration costs for incoming grade seven students at a minimum.

“Creating an accessible environment for all students is crucial, ensuring that financial barriers do not interfere with their ability to enrol and thrive in school. Children must not be denied access, [should be] given the registration forms at minimal cost, and [should be] allowed to pay for incidentals at a later stage,” said Chief Education Officer in the MoEYI Terry Ann Thomas Gayle in a bulletin released on Tuesday, following an Observer request to the ministry for a comment.

She also noted that it was imperative for all schools to maintain communication with parents and guardians, to ensure that they understand their options, emphasising that all public institutions were under the mandate of the ministry and its instructions.