Rural St Catherine schools to benefit from tablet distribution initiative
Published:Tuesday | April 23, 2024 | 8:59 AM
Rural schools in St Catherine are set to benefit from the donation of computer tablets arising from an initiative involving the St Catherine Justices of the Peace Association and technology company Smart Mobile Solutions Group (SMS).
The collaboration was unveiled during the association's annual general meeting at Bridgeport High School in Portmore, St Catherine on Saturday.
During the event, SMS delivered the first batch of 50 tablets.
The partnership is aimed at providing essential educational tools to underserved communities.
"The major part of this initiative is to aid in terms of education...to unlock the potential of our students and the wider population with the emphasis on digital transformation," said SMS CEO Dane Spencer.
Spencer stated that his company is eager to work with local organisations to bring educational tools to children.
He emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to drive positive change at the grassroots level.
Cristobal Wright, Chairman of the St Catherine Justices of the Peace Association, expressed gratitude for the initiative.
"We strongly believe that education with technology is paramount for our students."
He revealed plans to distribute the tablets to rural schools across St Catherine, targeting areas with the greatest need.
Custos of St Catherine, Icylin Golding, praised the association's focus on education and outlined plans for the tablet distribution programme.
"The association will involve the principals and guidance counsellors in the selection of the most needy students for the tablets," she explained.
SMS's donation, so far, of two hundred 32-specification 8.7-inch tablets, approved by the Ministry of Education, signifies a significant investment in enhancing educational opportunities for students.
The devices are equipped to run a variety of educational programmes, ensuring students have access to essential learning resources.
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