Jamaica Backs Drone Soccer as a Pathway for Youth Skills and Innovation

Jamaica’s government has provided financial support to its national drone soccer programme, highlighting the growing role of technology-enabled sport in STEM education, youth development and innovation.

Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport has provided J$1.35 million to the Jamaica Drone Football Association to support the national drone soccer team’s participation in an international competition in South Korea.

Sport Minister Olivia Grange described the contribution as an important step in supporting emerging sporting disciplines and creating new opportunities for young people at the intersection of sport, technology and entrepreneurship.

Drone soccer combines competitive team play with practical technical skills. Participants must develop capabilities in drone operation, strategy, teamwork, problem-solving and equipment management, while applying principles associated with science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Jamaica has already achieved several international milestones in the sport. In September 2025, it became the first Caribbean country to participate in the FIDA World Cup in South Korea. The Jamaican team later won the Class 40 category at the Pan Americas National Championship in May 2026, competing against teams from several countries.

Drone education is also expanding through the DRIFT Drones in School programme and the Harms Down, Drones Up community initiative. According to the Jamaica Gleaner, these programmes involve more than 40 schools and over 20,000 students across Jamaica and other Caribbean territories.

The government funding reflects growing recognition of drone soccer as both an emerging sport and a platform for technology education, innovation and youth engagement.

Source: Jamaica Gleaner, “Sport ministry gives $1.35 million to drone soccer initiative”, published 12 July 2026.