Editor’s note – November 6, 2025

Dear School Teacher,

Thank you for your steadfast care and dedication, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s impact. Your role in nurturing resilience and continuity is deeply valued.

Creative, school-based competitions offer a meaningful avenue for healing—allowing students to safely express their thoughts, connect with peers, and be recognised for their insight and imagination.

The PIOJ’s Creative Expression Competition for schools has been extended to January 30, 2026. This age-appropriate initiative invites students to submit artwork and written narratives that reflect Jamaica’s journey of overcoming challenges and envisioning a hopeful future. Full details are available on this page. 

We remain grateful for your continued commitment to fostering hope, creativity, and community among our children.

Yours sincerely,

Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ)  

CONTACT: SDGSJamaica@pioj.gov.jm

VNR School Design Competition Registration Form 

COMPETITION GUIDELINES

“Jamaica’s Young Voices: SDGs Creative Expression Competition for art and creative writing”

The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), in partnership with the e-Learning Jamaica and the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information have opened a schools’ art and creative writing competition called, “Jamaica’s Young Voices: SDG Creative Expression Competition.” The competition invites students to use their artistic and writing talents to showcase Jamaica’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The initiative seeks to engage young people in the national development agenda by having them creatively interpret and express Jamaica’s advancements on the 17 global SDGs. These goals aim to create a more sustainable future for all by addressing critical issues such as poverty, hunger, quality education, and environmental protection.

Winning entries will be featured in Jamaica’s 2026 Voluntary National Review, a formal report submitted to the United Nations highlighting the country’s SDG progress. In addition to this prestigious recognition, participants have the chance to win attractive prizes, including laptops, tablets, book vouchers and trophies.

The competition is open to students in three categories: Grades 4 to 6, Grades 7 to 9 and Grades 10 to 13.

All entries must be submitted by the school. Entries are to be submitted by January 30, 2026.