SHORT PROGRAMME AIMED AT IMPROVING LITERACY SKILLS AMONG 9-12 YEAR OLDS
OCHO RIOS, St Ann; Feb 28, 2026
Deveta Dowling, Miss St. Ann Festival Queen 2025, officially launched her community literacy initiative, Ready to Read, at the Parry Town Baptist Church, near Ocho Rios, on Thursday afternoon, February 26, 2026.
Ms Dowling says the project targets children nine to 12 years old and is designed as an after-school reading programme aimed at strengthening literacy skills, improving comprehension, and building confidence among young readers in the community of Parry Town, St. Ann.
(Deveta Dowling stands with students given books as part of the initiative)
The St Ann Festival Queen told the North Coast Times that this programme will be conducted over the course of a few weeks to a month and will host two sessions per week. Students will interact with various professionals, including police officers and teachers, who will lead meaningful talks and mentorship sessions. Each class session will last 30 minutes to an hour, with refreshments provided. Private donors are to provide sponsorship.
The initiative forms part of Dowling’s platform as Miss St. Ann Festival Queen 2025 and reflects her commitment to youth development and education.
“The Ready to Read programme will focus on guided reading sessions, interactive literacy activities, and mentorship, creating a safe and encouraging space for children to develop a love for books and learning,” she said in a release to the North Coast Times.
The initiative also seeks to partner with schools, parents, and community stakeholders to ensure sustainable impact.
(At The Launch: from left, Rosalee Edwards led the session with prayer and scripture reading; Deveta Dowling, Miss St Ann Festiva Queen 2025; Pauline Peters Ms Dowling’s mother, and Wentlin Mantle, JCDC Parish Manager)
Guest Speaker Shaneen Grant Gray, guidance counsellor, at the St. Ann’s Bay Primary School, commended the initiative and highlighted the urgent need for literacy-focused interventions.
Mrs. Grant Gray outlined the challenges students face within the classrooms and admonished parents to get involved.
“Parents, caregivers and grandparents, you are your child’s first teacher. Read with your child for five to 10 minutes a day. Let them see you reading, if it’s even the bible.”
The launch concluded with a call for community support and partnerships to expand the reach of the programme.
