Pamenos Burke Government School students get their laptops

The Ministry of Education continues to implement Government’s one laptop per child initiative.{{more}}

On Monday, May 9, the students of the Pamenos Burke Government School in Byera became the third school to receive computers under the one laptop per child initiative. 115 students from Grades two to five collected the systems which were handed out by staff of the Ministry of Education, with support from teachers of the school.

Speaking at a brief official ceremony ahead of the handing out of the computers, Headteacher of the school Wane DaBriel said the laptops will go a long way in enhancing the education of the children. Although Internet connection is not yet available at the school, DaBriel said this will in no way hinder the use of the netbooks. In the interim, he said that teachers will begin to work with the children on the systems immediately as there are several programmes which can be used without the use of an Internet connection.

In her address on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Senior Education Officer Jacqueline Glasgow-Browne reflected on the evolution of technology. Glasgow-Browne humorously recounted the days using slates to copy books and said it is a blessing to be at a stage where each child is now being given a netbook computer.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves whose idea it is to provide one laptop for each student was on hand to witness the momentous occasion. Gonsalves said this project is an important one for the education and development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In his address, Dr. Gonsalves stressed the importance of interconnectivity. It is important in dealing with airports; that’s why we are building an International airport. It is important when dealing with planes; that’s why are investing in LIAT. It is also important when dealing with roads; that is why we have built the bridge at Rabacca and developing the road network, the Prime Minister reasoned. But it is vital today that we achieve interconnectivity through Information Communication Technologies, the PM added.

Prime Minister Gonsalves further added that by the end of this year, it is expected that all schools throughout SVG will have Internet connection. This investment Dr. Gonsalves believes will transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines.