PM Holness Highlights Literacy as Key to Nation Building on Read Across Jamaica Day

KINGSTON, JAMAICA — Prime Minister Andrew Holness is calling on Jamaicans to embrace reading as a national priority, emphasizing the critical role of literacy in shaping the country’s future during Read Across Jamaica Day 2026.

In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Holness underscored the importance of reading in driving both individual empowerment and national development, aligning with this year’s theme, “Literacy Resilience: Foundation of Nation Building.”

“Literacy is the bedrock of what we aim to achieve as a country, serving as a vital tool for sustainable development and individual freedom,” the Prime Minister stated.

Literacy as a Tool for Opportunity and Confidence

Holness highlighted that strong literacy skills are essential not only for academic success but also for economic opportunity and civic participation.

“Reading is the key that unlocks economic opportunity, supports informed discussion, and empowers every Jamaican to speak with confidence,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that improving literacy across all age groups strengthens the nation’s ability to grow, compete globally, and foster inclusive progress.

Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Builder

On Read Across Jamaica Day, we come together to celebrate books and the boundless potential of our people. Literacy is the bedrock of what we aim to achieve as a country, serving as a vital tool for sustainable development and individual… pic.twitter.com/cSqYwBqXPh

— Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) May 5, 2026

A Call for National Participation

As part of the observance, Holness encouraged citizens to take simple but meaningful actions to promote reading within their communities.

“Pick up a book with a child, donate to a classroom, or share a story,” he urged. “These moments may seem small, but together they shape a future of progress and shared prosperity.”

Read Across Jamaica Day is observed annually to promote a culture of reading and to reinforce the importance of literacy as a cornerstone of education and development.

Government Investment in Education

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s education system through continued investment in teachers, classrooms, and learning resources.

“We will continue to invest in our teachers, modernize our classrooms, and ensure that every child has access to the resources they need,” Holness said.

He added that the government is working to build an inclusive education system that supports students across the island, “from Negril to Morant Point.”

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