The Social Development Commission (SDC) has been awarded Top Partner and Most Responsive Programme at the National Poverty Reduction Programme’s (NPRP) Stakeholders Re-engagement and Recognition Ceremony for 2024/2025. The accolades presented by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), highlight SDC’s exceptional contributions to poverty reduction through partnerships and community-driven initiatives under its Local Economic Development Support Programme (LEDSP) and responsive programming.
The awards were announced during a two-day workshop hosted by the PIOJ focused on data management and measuring progress in poverty reduction. The event concluded on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, with a ceremony recognizing stakeholders across the NPRP Committee for their critical role in advancing Jamaica’s poverty eradication goals.
Omar Frith, SDC Executive Director, emphasized the organization’s mission, “This recognition reaffirms our commitment to empowering communities. Partnerships are the backbone of sustainable development, and we are proud to collaborate with local stakeholders to create opportunities where they matter most.”
Frith, also credited the LEDSP’s success to its grassroots approach, “Our Local Economic Development Programme thrives because it listens to communities. By tailoring support to their unique needs whether through skills training, small business grants, or infrastructure projects we are fostering resilience and self-reliance.”
Avril Ranger, Director of Local Economic Development, highlighted the significance of the recognition, stating that the SDC’s Local Economic Development Support Programme being named the Most Responsive Programme is a testament to the SDC’s agility. “We adapt quickly to challenges, using data and community feedback to ensure no one is left behind. This award belongs to all Jamaicans who trusted us to walk this journey with them,” she said.
Dr. Wayne Henry, Director General of the PIOJ, commended the SDC for its impactful work, stating, “I am privileged to be part of a top team of passionate professionals engaged in meaningful work that is transforming lives. We want to thank and recognize you for your tireless work and passion.”
Guided by Jamaica’s National Policy on Poverty and Vision 2030, the NPRP aims to ensure all Jamaicans achieve income security, access quality services, and enjoy improved quality of life. Its five key focus areas include addressing Extreme Poverty and Basic Needs economic empowerment and Human Capital Development, community infrastructure, and institutional strengthening. The SDC’s LEDSP directly supports these goals by driving job creation, entrepreneurship, and equitable resource distribution at the local level.
The SDC remains dedicated to its mandate of fostering inclusive development. With these awards, the organization reaffirms its pledge to collaborate with government agencies, private-sector partners, and communities to turn the tide against poverty.
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