JCDC builds 'cultural hub'
Published:Sunday | November 21, 2010 | 12:00 AM
The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) has dubbed its new website 'a cultural hub'. The website was launched last week at the Ardenne High School. According to the JCDC, the initiative is part of an ongoing rebranding and overall strategic plan currently being implemented by the agency.
According to Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Olivia Grange, the site, which bears the address www.jcdc.gov.jm, boasts the latest features in website technology, and "allows access to the most current and factual information on Jamaican culture and heritage at the click of a button".
"This will allow Jamaicans, visitors to the island, and anyone browsing anywhere in the world to experience our rich culture by simply going online," said Grange.
Modern technology
"Visitors to our site can listen to current and past festival songs, research information on cultural topics, get updates on cultural events, and much more," she added.
The culture minister also pointed to plans to include live streaming of events like the Grand Gala and other national activities in the near future.
"As we chart the way forward for culture and prepare to celebrate Jamaica's 50th anniversary of independence in 2012, we intend to even further embrace the current trends in modern technology and media," Grange asserted.
She further noted that the new website also allows users to follow the work of the JCDC through the use of social-media websites like Facebook and YouTube.
Speaking at the launch, JCDC Executive Director Grace Silvera congratulated Ardenne High School for winning the most prestigious award in the Festival of the Arts 2010, and encouraged them to utilise the facilities provided on the website to further their academic and cultural pursuits.
The website, which was designed by Chrysalis Communications Ltd, among several other features, allows users to download entry forms and information on JCDC competitions, purchase souvenirs, browse photo galleries of JCDC events, watch cultural videos, and browse extensive archives of cultural and historical information.