Students leaving school early to join the job market because of COVID-19 disruption

The phenomenon of high school students abandoning school to enter the job market due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is reportedly growing.

The Principal of Frome Technical High School in Westmoreland, Norman Allen, said based on information he has received, the fallout due to the lack of classes will be more significant than initially expected, reporting that it has been very evident at his school.

The issue was raised earlier in the day by the Principal of  Cumberland High in St Catherine, Darien Henry, who explained that many students in grade eleven who are to sit CSEC exams this year are staying away due to financial problems.

Mr Allen, speaking later on Radio Jamaica’s Beyond the Headlines, disclosed that he has lost a significant number of senior students due to their socio-economic challenges.

These students, he said, have left to seek employment and many are now working.