Public Education, Public Relations and Communications

Overview

The Public Education, Public Relations and Communications Department of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) operates as an integrated unit supporting the Trust’s mandate to preserve, protect and sustainably develop Jamaica’s tangible heritage. Through coordinated public engagement and strategic communication, the Department builds national awareness of heritage resources, strengthens community participation, and reinforces heritage as a cornerstone of national identity and development.

Serving as a key link between the JNHT and the public, the Department ensures that the work of the Trust is clearly communicated, widely accessible and meaningfully experienced. Its programmes support public education, media engagement, stakeholder relations and community partnerships, while contributing to the establishment and strengthening of Parish Heritage Foundations and the activation of heritage sites for learning, cultural expression and economic opportunity.

Core Functions

The Department designs and delivers public education initiatives that engage communities, schools and stakeholders through seminars, lectures, exhibitions and outreach activities. It also develops interpretive content and storytelling that support guided tours and immersive visitor experiences across heritage sites.

In addition, the Department coordinates media relations and public information activities to ensure consistent and effective representation of the work of the JNHT. This includes the production of brochures, booklets, newsletters, exhibition scripts and digital content, as well as press engagements and stakeholder collaboration with communities, Municipal Corporations and partner agencies.

Strategic communication initiatives further support public understanding of heritage policy, conservation priorities and the importance of safeguarding Jamaica’s heritage resources for future generations.

Flagship National Observances and Programmes

The Department conceptualises and coordinates several major national observances that advance heritage awareness and public education. These include Taíno Day, observed annually on May 5 at Seville Heritage Park, which honours Jamaica’s first inhabitants; Emancipation Jubilee, commemorated from July 31 to August 1 in recognition of African enslavement, emancipation and legacy; and the JNHT’s national programme for Heritage Month in October, celebrating the breadth of Jamaica’s cultural and historical heritage.

Publications

The Department produces a range of publications documenting Jamaica’s built and natural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Publications section to view and purchase available titles.