Jamaica’s Education System on the Rise: CSEC and CAPE Results Show Promise

Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI) has just announced some exciting news that has everyone buzzing! The results from the 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) show remarkable improvements in English Language and Mathematics, and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) results are equally encouraging.

A Bright Spot in English and Mathematics

The national pass rate for CSEC English Language has soared to an impressive 85 percent, surpassing the pre-pandemic figure of 82.8 percent from 2019. This is a significant leap from the 76 percent recorded in 2024. Mathematics, too, is on the mend, with pass rates climbing to 44 percent, up from 40 percent last year. While there’s still a way to go to reach the 54 percent pre-pandemic rate, these gains signal a steady recovery.

Schools Making Strides

The MoESYI reported that all National School Learning and Intervention Plan (NSLIP) schools improved their performance in English A, and nearly all made gains in Mathematics. Out of 56 NSLIP schools, 41 showed improvement in Mathematics. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of teachers and students alike.

Minister of Education, Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, expressed her pride in these results, saying, “These results reflect the resilience of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of parents.” It’s clear that the collective efforts to rebuild after the learning losses caused by COVID-19 are paying off.

Targeted Initiatives Driving Success

So, what’s behind this success? The Ministry has rolled out a series of targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing teaching quality and providing extra support to students. Programs like National Mathematics and Literacy Camps, an Expanded Extra Lesson and Homework Programme in over 50 priority schools, and the deployment of specialist teachers to underperforming schools have made a real difference. Plus, the integration of technology, such as e-learning platforms, has opened new avenues for learning.

CAPE Results Shine Bright

At the CAPE level, public schools achieved an overall pass rate of 91.5 percent across Units 1 and 2. Unit 1 saw a pass rate of 91.2 percent, while Unit 2 reached 92.3 percent. Performance in STEM subjects was particularly strong, with Chemistry at 92.3 percent, Physics at 95.4 percent, and Pure Mathematics at 90.1 percent. These numbers reflect a consistent upward trend, and it’s clear that students are thriving in these critical areas.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Minister Morris Dixon emphasized that these achievements are not mere luck. “They are the product of deliberate planning, investment, and a belief that every child can learn and excel,” she stated. The Ministry is committed to closing existing gaps and ensuring that every Jamaican student is equipped not just to pass exams, but to excel in life.

Permanent Secretary Dr. Kasan Troupe echoed this sentiment, saying, “We have seen what is possible when students are given the right tools, quality teaching, and consistent support.” The Ministry plans to expand intervention programs and strengthen partnerships to ensure that no student is left behind.

Looking Ahead

While the gains are heartening, the journey is far from over. The MoESYI is set to intensify its focus on Mathematics and Science, expand access to technology-driven learning tools, and invest in advanced teacher training. The goal is clear: to prepare every Jamaican student for success in further studies, the workplace, and life.

As we celebrate these achievements, one can’t help but wonder: what more can be done to ensure that every child in Jamaica reaches their full potential? The future looks bright, and the commitment to education remains strong.