The EU-JA 5K & 10K Run has not only broken records in participation but will now make a lasting impact on Jamaica’s youth, as proceeds from the event will directly support five primary schools through literacy and early intervention initiatives.

With over 4,200 registrants—the largest turnout in its three-year history—the event, held on March 9, 2025, continues to fulfill its mission of tackling crime and violence at its roots by empowering young minds through education.

The funds raised will be channelled into the Creative Language-Based Learning (CLBL) Foundation, an initiative that equips educators with innovative tools to improve literacy outcomes in vulnerable communities. The five schools set to benefit are:

Cockburn Gardens Primary
Calabar Primary
Whitfield Primary
Greenwich All-Age School
Tavares Gardens Primary School
Literacy as a Crime Prevention Tool
At the event, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, emphasized that improving literacy is a critical pillar of crime prevention and national development.

“Education is the foundation of a strong and prosperous Jamaica. By equipping our children with the skills to read and think critically, we are not just securing their future—we are securing the nation’s future. The European Union’s commitment to literacy and education will create a ripple effect that will be felt for generations,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by Hon. Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, State Minister in the Ministry of National Security, who stressed the importance of social intervention initiatives in crime reduction.

“Crime prevention starts with opportunity—opportunities for young people to learn, to grow, and to make better choices. The EU-JA 5K & 10K is not just a run; it is an investment in our children, ensuring they have the tools they need to build a better future,” she stated.

Her Excellency Dr. Erja Askola, EU Ambassador to Jamaica, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Jamaica’s Citizen Security Plan, particularly through education.

“This initiative is more than just an annual event—it is a movement. By investing in literacy and early intervention, we are addressing the root causes of crime and creating safer, stronger communities. We are proud to stand with Jamaica in this mission,” Ambassador Askola said.

Olympian Shanieka Ricketts, the official patron of the event, has been a strong advocate for education as a tool for social change. The World Championship silver medalist in the triple jump praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of giving children the resources to succeed.

“Education changes lives. I am honoured to be part of an event that is not just about running but about real impact. These five schools represent the future of Jamaica, and I am thrilled that the EU-JA 5K & 10K will help give their students the support they need,” Ricketts said.

A formal handover of the funds will take place in the coming months, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly into improving literacy in these five schools.

As Jamaica and the EU celebrate 50 years of partnership, the success of the EU-JA 5K & 10K Run is a testament to the power of collaboration, community, and commitment to change.