JAMAICA EARNS WORLD BANK HUMAN CAPITAL CHAMPION AWARD FOR STRONG DEVELOPMENT OUTCOMES

­­­­­­­­­­­­Kingston, Jamaica: Monday, June 29, 2026

Jamaica has earned international recognition for its investment in people, receiving the World Bank Group’s Human Capital Champion Award for achieving strong human capital outcomes relative to its income level.

The award recognises countries that are making significant strides in developing the health, education and productive capacity of their citizens. Jamaica joins a select group of high-performing countries whose investments in people are translating into stronger development outcomes.

Jamaica achieved a Human Capital Index Plus (HCI+) score of 200 out of a possible 325, outperforming the average for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The country’s employment outcomes exceeded the regional average, while health outcomes remained on par with the region, reflecting sustained national efforts to improve the well-being and economic participation of its people.

Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, said the award reflects the success of Jamaica’s long-term investments in its people and reinforces the Government’s commitment to developing a skilled, healthy and productive population as a driver of sustainable economic growth and national development.

“Jamaica welcomes the World Bank Group’s Human Capital Champion Award. This recognition reflects the country’s strong performance and positive progress on the Human Capital Index Plus and stands as a testament to Jamaica’s sustained investments in health, education and employment. It underscores our commitment to developing the skills, well-being and productive capacity of our people, which remain central to achieving inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Minister Williams said.

The Human Capital Index Plus measures the human capital a child born today can expect to accumulate over their lifetime, from birth through age 65. Expanding on the original Human Capital Index, the HCI+ incorporates tertiary education and work experience, providing a more comprehensive assessment of how countries prepare their citizens to lead healthy, productive and economically rewarding lives.

Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean, noted, “Jamaica’s recognition as a Human Capital Champion underscores its commitment to unlocking opportunities for its citizens. Progress in employment, particularly through expanded on-the-job learning and increased tertiary education completion, signals a strong foundation for future growth.”

The accompanying HCI+ report highlights the importance of strengthening early childhood development, expanding access to quality education, improving labour market outcomes and integrating public services to support families and communities.

Dr Wayne Henry, Director General at the Planning Institute of Jamaica, echoed that this recognition reflects a national commitment to investing in people as the country’s most valuable resource.

The award places Jamaica among a select group of countries recognised for maximising human capital outcomes relative to national income, alongside Kenya, the Kyrgyz Republic and Vietnam.

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For further information contact:

Corporate Communication & Public Relations Branch

Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

30 National Heroes Circle

Kingston 4

Tel: (876) 932-4656/4660/4655

Email:  Shakiel.Rochester-Shorter@mof.gov.jm; Suzell.Wray@mof.gov.jm

Contact: Shakiel Rochester Shorter/Suzell Wray