Latest news in Jamaica? September 11th, 2026

UK Scraps Visa Fees for Privy Council Appeals The Jamaican government and legal fraternity have welcomed a UK decision to eliminate visa application fees for Commonwealth litigants and their legal teams traveling to London for hearings before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. While the fee waiver removes a significant cost barrier, Jamaican attorneys note that ensuring applicants are not arbitrarily denied entry remains essential for fair access to justice. Radio Jamaica News Online+ 1Back-to-School and Hurricane Recovery Debates Public scrutiny remains focused on the condition of schools following recent hurricane damage, particularly in western parishes such as Westmoreland. The Ministry of Education stated that more than half of the damaged schools are targeted for repairs by year-end. However, reports of students attending classes outdoors have sparked sharp criticism from the parliamentary opposition and child advocacy groups over recovery priorities and infrastructure readiness. Jamaica Observer+ 1Trelawny Community Mourning Grief has resurfaced in Trelawny following the passing of Aston Junior Coke, who died at Mandeville Hospital after a battle with colon cancer. His death occurred just weeks after the burial of his 10-year-old daughter, Shani Coke, whose murder earlier in the summer drew nationwide outrage. Radio Jamaica News Online+ 1Healthcare System Pressures The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) has reported dealing with severe overcrowding as a sharp surge in patient visits continues to stretch emergency and admission capacities. Jamaica Gleaner ePaperSports & Youth Engagement Sprint legend Usain Bolt announced a new global initiative in partnership with World Athletics and the gaming platform Roblox, aiming to increase youth interest and engagement in track and field worldwide.