40 years of dedication Gayana Riley earns Golden Torch honour

Gayana Riley was overcome with pride as she received the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Golden Torch Award, recognising four decades of dedication to educating and inspiring thousands of students.

Among the St Mary educators honoured, Riley stood out as the recipient with the longest period of service — a milestone she says represents years of commitment, perseverance, and love for the teaching profession.

“I have been in the system for 40 years and it has been a very excellent one. There have been many challenges along the way, but with help and the cooperation of teammates, I have made it through and I am truly happy for this moment to be collecting my Golden Torch Award, even though I should have collected it five years ago,” she said.

The Retreat Primary and Junior High School teacher revealed that nursing was initially her career aspiration, but after careful consideration, she decided to pursue education.

“I entered St Joseph Teachers’ College, where I received my bachelor’s degree in education and from that, my journey started and, truly, I have enjoyed every moment of it and I’m still in the system,” she said.

Riley began her teaching career at Boscobel Primary in 1987, where she served for four months. She later had brief teaching assignments at Retreat Primary and Port Maria Primary before returning to Retreat Primary in 1990, where she continued to make her mark.

Throughout her career, she has achieved several milestones, including earning a bachelor’s degree in guidance and counselling and helping students successfully prepare for the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations.

Despite the challenges associated with teaching, Riley said the determination and curiosity of her students continue to motivate her.

“The eagerness of some of the children to learn, even though they might not be up to their full potential, keeps me going,” she said.