As teachers and students in the west continue to make the most out of adjusted learning environments post Hurricane Melissa, the Sandals Foundation has made a major stride in strengthening the climate resilience of three schools, adding solar energy technology to meet immediate and the long-term demands of the future.

Valued at some JMD $4,000,000, solar systems have been installed at the Cove Primary School in Hanover, as well as Kings Primary and Infant and Culloden Infant in Westmoreland – the first phase of a strategic effort to strengthen the energy resilience of the island’s learning institutions.

“One of the factors driving our restoration efforts in schools is ensuring the implementation of durable and sustainable methods and technologies that provides a great level of flexibility,” says Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation.

While sections of the schools remain partially covered with tarpaulin - for temporary roofing - the current renewable energy infrastructure stands as the beginning of a larger investment to come.

“We’re taking things on a phased basis. The current installation has allowed schools to immediately meet some key operation and administrative needs. As we rebuild more permanent structures, our goal is to expand the solar energy system - allowing more operations of the school to be powered by the sun,” says Clarke.

For Kings Primary and Infant School Principal Marcia Tatham-Miller, “The installation of solar panels at our schools has been transformative. They allow us to maintain lighting, operate essential equipment and continue instruction even during power outages. It makes us feel hopeful and empowered.”

The Whitehouse community has been without electricity some 3 and a half months since the category 5 storm. At Culloden Infant, Principal Michelle Whittingham says the solar system has enabled administrators to meet a lot of student needs.

“The solar has been a tremendous help. The school cook can now purchase meat and store for school lunches. The children missed and can now enjoy their ice cream treats because we are able to operate our refrigerator. Textbooks that were damaged in the storm are now supplemented with photocopy services.  Teachers have been able to use their computers to aid in learning instructions, recharge their devices, and the air conditioning system that came with our new modular classrooms (also provided by the Sandals Foundation), will be powered during warm days.”

In Hanover, roof damage destroyed solar panels previously installed by the philanthropic organization. Now, beaming from their much-needed replacement, Principal at Cove Primary, Patrice Campbell says solar-powered systems should be an essential investment in any school infrastructure.

“Because hurricanes and severe weather events are becoming more frequent, schools must be built to withstand the future, not the past. Renewable energy reduces operational costs and allow more funds to go towards learning resources and student development. In addition, climate-smart technology ensures learning continues in emergencies. Sustainable school rebuild empowers schools to be safe protecting both students and staff.”