ONE-MINUTE READS ... News from across Jamaica

More tablets coming

The Ministry of Education and Youth, through e-Learning Jamaica Limited, will be procuring 42,311 devices for lower primary and secondary students.

Fayval Williams, the country's education minister, said that e-Learning Jamaica has already acquired 11,500 tablets and is preparing to start the distribution to lower secondary-school students in the rural schools across the island.

"This will help to significantly reduce the digital divide. To date, we have distributed approximately 130,000 tablets and laptops to our teachers and students with a special focus on students on the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education," she said.

Williams was speaking during the sitting of the House of Representatives on Tuesday.

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Health ministry issues COVID/flu guidelines

Jamaicans are being told that it may not be necessary to get tested for COVID-19 if they develop mild flu-like symptoms.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), in a media release issued yesterday, said persons with mild flu-like symptoms should remain at home and monitor themselves, while observing the infection prevention and control measures.

However, if symptoms worsen or persist beyond three days, they should seek medical advice from a private doctor, a health centre or the parish health department.

"Persons may be advised to do a COVID-19 test, which can be done privately or in the public health system by referral," the ministry said.

Persons with severe symptoms are being advised to seek immediate medical attention.

Jamaica has recorded 11,730 cases of COVID-19 since the start of the year. The MOHW reported that 1,207 persons tested positive for the novel coronavirus on Tuesday.

Persons are being encouraged to frequently wash their hands, wear a mask, get vaccinated, take a booster, observe physical distance, avoid crowded spaces, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and eat healthy to help in the fight against COVID-19.

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New traffic system coughs up 1,000 e-tickets

Almost 1,000 e-tickets have been issued by traffic cops armed with new e-Ticket smart android devices under a pilot programme in the Corporate Area.

The new electronic ticketing system, which involves the use of smart android devices and 100 portable printers, gives the police personnel the ability to issue traffic tickets and reference driver and vehicle information, including ticket history and outstanding tickets.

The system is integrated in other government databases, thus giving people the ability to pay their fines on the Tax Administration Jamaica website within minutes after being issued with an e-ticket.

Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang said that he is confident the new system will support the efficient enforcement of fines and penalties to improve public order and safety.

"We envisage that this system will help to put an end to the undisciplined use of our roadways by motorists and help to usher in a decent, more caring motoring public," Chang said.

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Jamaica to honour 60 women for Jamaica 60

The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has announced that her ministry plans to honour 60 women in March to mark the observance of International Women's Day, and as part of the Jamaica 60 celebrations.

Grange said the women to be honoured will be drawn from various sectors and groups to represent a wide cross-section of the Jamaican population.

"These are women who have broken the glass ceiling, survived and excelled," the minister said.

Minister Grange made the announcement as she spoke at the launch ceremony for the Scotiabank Women Initiative, which the bank says will "make capital more accessible to local business women and provide 'tailored solutions'; training opportunities; advisory services; and mentorship".