There exists an almost invisible network of education in Jamaica. Most take it for granted, nearly all of us underestimate its potential and effects historically.

Some call it 'The Each One Teach One University'
another title is 'The University of Higher Learning'.

The mode of operation is this: the network operates and enriches by the openess to pass on information to those that seek it or need it.

Historically information is passed in family, tribal, guild, university etc networks.

We have evolved into 'All Purpose' individuals by the need to survive and thrive. We often take this multi skill advantage for granted. We would not have learned these skills without willing teachers.

These willing teachers are everywhere and of all ages. I have never heard of anyone charging for the service. It seems to be understood that neither teachers, caretakers or students should go hungry.

All participants are usually willing, if able, to be student, teacher and caretaker at once or at different times.

This exists everywhere and was important to old tribal cultures. Of all the places I have lived in, Jamaica has kept the tradition alive dispite us having one foot in the 'first world'.

Maybe the secret is that if this process is encouraged, it will be another engine of upliftment for us.

I just learned how ponds were dug and sealed without modern sealants, a formula for the mortar that was used in stone buildings and how to work with plants. I'll post a picture of the Ja garden in Vancouver that is the fruit of the teaching when it ripe up.

Any and all forms of giving energy, as in giving love, sharing information freely, or finding time for our elders and children will always reward the giver as much as the receiver. This is the key to the universe.

That's a very fundamental means of learning that I think is yet to be surpased given all the instutions of learning.It's mainly informal,cost just a little community "livity," spread a wealth of knowledge like wild fire, foster the interchange of knowledge, builds unity and togetherness among people.The lack of or inadequate transfer of knowledge within the communities in my opinion has created the vacum that has left many youths full of energies to resort to evil acts as a mean of release of pent up energies.
The foundation of Jamaica was built on this technique of learning.Dating back the maroons learning was effectively using this method. We are very apt at this means of learning. Dating back to the days when informatin was transferred by travel on donkeys, later truckers as lead up to the strike at Frome 1930's, strike at the waterfront in Kingston.All the houses that was built in my community as far as I inquired those tradesmen got their skills passed on from others.Jamaicans learn very fast in a hands on situation even if they are not very sharpe accademically.Lets not forget the wells that were dug by hands and harnessed, cotton tree to make canoe,our artisans are mainly from that school,tailors, dressmakers, barbers to name a few.

Turey, I would then advocate to suppliment the above with on the job training with an incentive for employers who take on apprentices.

The greatest part of the solution to our upliftment lies in our own hands to using and utilizing what we have and whatever works for us.

Yes turey, I strongly support your sentiments!


I think Jamaicans learn quickly using this method

Yes native, apprenticeship is a key in the process, formal or not.

I'm informally apprenticed to Brother G up here and am learning plant use and care from his Great Grandmother Nana and many others through him.

I also learned about Bob Marleys childhood and how he made his first guitar with a mackrel tin and whole heap of bush history.

One should also be open to learning new things, or the world shall leave you behind!