The Institute of Jamaica (IOJ) is Jamaica’s premiere cultural agency with a mandate to, “Encourage Literature, Science and Art”. Established in 1879 by the then Governor of Jamaica, Sir Anthony Musgrave, the IOJ has developed as a cultural catalyst that has been able to transform the national landscape through the projects and programmes which it implements.

The main functions of the IOJ are as follows:

• Establishing and managing museums and galleries for the collection, preservation and display of artefacts and art treasure
• Maintaining and displaying of artefacts and art treasures
• Documenting and disseminating information on the impact of the African presence in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean
• Developing the creative potential of children through the visual and performing Arts
• Compiling, publishing and distributing printed information of literacy, scientific and historical interest

Being one of Jamaica’s oldest organizations IOJ is the home of the oldest award in the Western Hemisphere – The Musgrave Medal- aptly named after our founder. The award is conferred upon distinguished professionals in the fields of Literature, Science, and Art in alignment with the organization’s mandate.

• In the 1978, the Institute of Jamaica  Act of 1879 was repealed and its scope of activities expanded.

The Institute has responsibility for the following Divisions/ Departments:

• African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica /Jamaica Memory Bank (ACIJ/JMB)
• Liberty Hall: Legacy of Marcus Garvey – a project of the ACIJ/JMB
• Programmes Coordination Division
• Junior Centres  (East Street and Greater Portmore)
• Simon Bolivar Cultural Centre

• The Natural History Museum of Jamaica
• National Museum Jamaica
• Jamaica Music Museum (JAMM)
• The National Gallery of Jamaica

In addition the Central Administration Division/Executive Office that provides corporate services to support the work of the Divisions, and include the following Departments:

• Information Technology
• Development & Public Relations
• Assets Management
• Finance and Accounts
• Internal Audit
• Office Management
• Human Resource and Management
• Registry

Services offered at the Agency includes but not limited to:

• Museum Tours
• Cultural Programmes (Edutainment, Symposia, Lectures, and Workshops)
• Research on Jamaica’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage
• Outreach programmes for children and adults
• Library Services

VISION STATEMENT

Fueled by dynamism, creativity and passion the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport  has contributed to a vibrant, prosperous and inclusive Jamaica by preserving, promoting and developing our culture, gender, entertainment and sporting strategic objectives

MISSION STATEMENT

We support the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport’s mission by preserving, promoting and encouraging the research, development, education and involvement in the nation’s culture, arts, literature, science, history and museums to strengthen Brand Jamaica.

CORE VALUES

Transparency

Respect

Accountability

Integrity

Team-Oriented

Service

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