The education ministry says it is far advanced with plans to transform the St Elizabeth-based Syndey Pagon High School into an institution that focuses on the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The transformation is being done in time for about 100 grade-seven students who will enroll in the new programme next month.

The ministry says approximately $20 million is being spent initially to upgrade the science laboratories, classrooms and library facilities.

The Sydney Pagon STEM Academy will be the first of its kind in Jamaica since Education Minister Ronald Thwaites announced plans earlier this year.

Several other institutions will be transformed with a curriculum emphasising science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The move to have STEM institutions is a strategic response to the need for more highly qualified technology graduates for the job market.