WATCH: PEP adjustments to continue for another year, say Morris Dixon

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Adjustments made to the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations following Hurricane Melissa will remain in place this year, with the Ministry of Education indicating that the concessions will end in 2027. Education Minister Dana Morris Dixon made the announcement on Tuesday following a post-Cabinet press briefing, noting that students in western Jamaica were still being affected by the hurricane. She said the ministry had consulted with teachers, principals, parents and other stakeholders before deciding to maintain last year's adjustments. The minister explained that some examination papers were reduced last year and those changes would continue for this year's sitting, which will mirror the previous examination format. However, she said the adjustments should mark the final year of the concessions, with PEP expected to return to its normal format next year. “So parents, teachers, next year we're back to our normal sitting of PEP,” she said. Morris Dixon also reminded parents of children with special needs that examination accommodations would again be available this year. These include readers, writers and additional time, where required. She urged parents to submit requests for the accommodations early rather than waiting until the deadline, emphasising that the ministry wanted to ensure an inclusive and successful examination for all students. (Video: Garfield Robinson)