Festival Song icon inspires Four Paths Primary

Four Paths Primary School, located in Clarendon, was filled with excitement and inspiration recently, following a donation and surprise visit from legendary reggae artiste Eric Donaldson.

The initiative, led by Jamaica-born paediatrician Dr Anneth Bartley-Satuyi, saw more than 100 pairs of shoes donated to students, bringing smiles and renewed confidence across the school community. The donation was made in honour of her mother, Ena Bartley, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. The highlight of the day came when Donaldson arrived. Students erupted in cheers as the reggae icon led an energetic sing-along, transforming the schoolyard into a vibrant cultural celebration. Beyond the music, Donaldson delivered words of encouragement to the students, urging them to stay focused on their education and prepare for the future.

"Stay in school, choose more than one career path, and always have something to fall back on," he advised. He later signed shoe boxes, posed for photographs, and personally motivated the children. Teachers described the visit as "a blessing the school will never forget".

Bartley-Satuyi also announced plans to further support the institution with the donation of a fully equipped media and learning resource room. The facility will include computers, tablets, books, and visual learning tools aimed at enhancing literacy, digital skills, and creativity among students. The initiative forms part of the broader Give Back Jamaica Programme, which connects members of the Jamaican diaspora with schools across the island. President Hopeton Brown reaffirmed the organisation's mission.

"When we give back, Jamaica moves forward," he said, while encouraging both local and overseas partners to support the cause.

Donaldson is one of Jamaica's most celebrated reggae singer-songwriters and a multiple-time winner of the Jamaica Festival Song Competition. Born in St Catherine, he rose to prominence in 1971 with his classic hit Cherry Oh Baby, a song that later achieved international recognition through covers by artistes such as The Rolling Stones and UB40. His catalogue also includes patriotic favourites like Sweet Jamaica and Land of My Birth, which have cemented his legacy as a powerful voice in Jamaica's cultural and musical history.