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$1.2 Billion to be Spent on E-Learning Project

By: , April 8, 2014

The Key Point:

The Government will continue its E-Learning Jamaica Project (e-LJam) in the 2014/15 fiscal year, boosted by an allocation of $1.2 billion.
$1.2 Billion to be Spent on E-Learning Project
Windward Road Primary and Junior High School student, Princess Rainford (seated), demonstrates her proficiency of the computer to Minister of Education, Rev. Hon. Ronald Thwaites (2nd right). The Minister was touring sections of the school, during a visit to the institution’s East Kingston location on October 24. Looking on at right, is principal, Norman Malcolm. (FILE)

The Facts

  • The project seeks to utilise Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to improve in the quality of education in schools.
  • The project is funded by the Government of Jamaica/Universal Service Fund and is scheduled for completion in September 2014.

The Full Story

The Government will continue its E-Learning Jamaica Project (e-LJam) in the 2014/15 fiscal year, boosted by an allocation of $1.2 billion, which has been set aside in the budget.

The project seeks to utilise Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to improve in the quality of education in schools; enhance the learning experience; and impact school performance.

Some of the achievements, since its inception in September 2006 include: delivery of audiovisual equipment to the targeted 203 educational institutions – 166 public high schools, 16 independent high schools, 10 teachers colleges, five community colleges and six special schools (for students with learning and physical disabilities).

Additionally, computer equipment and networks were installed in the targeted 196 educational institutions – 166 public high schools, eight teachers’ colleges, 16 independent high schools, and six public special schools.

Other achievements include: contracting of the HEART Trust/NTA to provide training and certification in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills; training 11,400 teachers and lecturers and Ministry of Education (MOE) Education Officers; certifying 8,400 persons to National Council on Technical and Vocational Education and Training, NVQ-J level 1 and 2 standard; contracting Mico University College, through the Mico Foundation, to provide training in the integration of the technology in instructional delivery; providing training for 4,662 teachers, and lecturers and Education Officers. This also included 360 trainers of trainers.

In terms of remedial work, the project implemented technology-enrichment programmes in 30 low-performing schools to assist in improving the literacy and numeracy skills of students at Grade 7 and 8.

Targets for the new financial year include: completion of teachers and students instructional materials for information technology; customization of Moodle Learning Content Management System; animation of previously developed content; support to Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning High School Diploma Programme; and setting up of activities for the establishment of a Media Production arm to market the content developed by the Ministry of Education, and e-LJam, as well as to manage the Central Repository.

Other targets include: completion of the remaining 20 per cent of fixed whiteboard installations; relocation of Central Repository for Educational Material equipment and full establishment of repository hosting services; helpdesk services fully established; and administration of Grade 7 and 9 Tests in June 2014.

The project is funded by the Government of Jamaica/Universal Service Fund and is scheduled for completion in September 2014.

Last Updated: April 8, 2014

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