$31.3 Million Ignite Hub Launched at UWI

e-Learning Jamaica, in partnership with The School of Education at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, has launched a $31.3 million state-of-the-art training facility.

This is aimed at equipping educators with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to integrate new and emerging technologies effectively in classroom instruction.

Based at UWI in St. Andrew, the IGNITE Hub (Innovative Growth in Next-Gen Instruction and Technology Education) features 31 computers, virtual reality headsets, motion-tracking cameras and hybrid learning capabilities.

It also boasts interactive digital tools, such as interactive panels, artificial intelligence-powered teaching assistants, adaptive learning platforms and multimedia content creation software.

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, who delivered the keynote address during Wednesday’s (February 26) launch, described it as a notable milestone in transforming Jamaica’s educational landscape.

“Education in 21st century Jamaica requires more than traditional teaching methods. It demands innovation, adaptability and the integration of technology to create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment,” she said.

Dr. Morris Dixon underscored that the ability of a teacher to integrate technology effectively into classroom instruction will determine how well students are prepared for the modern workforce.

“The IGNITE Hub provides a space where educators can develop these digital competencies, experiment with new teaching methodologies and explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Educators will be exposed to customised workshops, interactive simulations and mentorship programmes aimed at enhancing their confidence in using digital tools,” she said.

Dr. Morris Dixon added that the IGNITE Hub aligns with the Ministry’s broader mission of enhancing digital literacy, expanding access to online learning resources and bridging the digital divide.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of e-Learning Jamaica, Andrew Lee, argued that the cutting-edge training facility marks a pivotal moment in Jamaica’s educational transformation journey.

The idea of the Hub was birthed after a series of artificial intelligence workshops with teachers a year ago.

“We believe that the IGNITE Hub is a game changer for training of educators. Our commitment at e-Learning to this programme is consistent with our mandate, which is to infuse technology into public educational institutions,” Mr. Lee said.

For her part, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Education, Professor Silvia Kouwenberg, expressed gratitude to e-Learning Jamaica for the investment in the Faculty’s 75th year.

“The University of the West Indies is where research in science education takes place. Without the University of the West Indies’ programmes in science education and scholarship in science education, there are no programmes in science education in the teachers’ colleges of Jamaica. It’s an important observation, therefore, that the establishment of the IGNITE Hub that we celebrate today will support not only science education at UWI but also the teachers’ colleges and schools across Jamaica,” she explained.