Minister Paulwell Calls for Support of Tablet in Schools Programme

Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining (STEM), Hon. Phillip Paulwell, is calling for broad-based support for the Tablet in Schools Programme.

The Minister said the programme is a major investment by the Government, one that could lead to the unearthing of talent among the country’s young people and play a key role in their future.

“This is the world of technology (and) if we don’t get on board now we’re going to be left behind.  I really want all of us to support it and to encourage the youngsters to see the tablet not as a toy but as a learning device. Now, they can easily develop an inquisitive mind that can efficiently utilise information and create wealth,” he stated.

The Minister was addressing members of the Rotary Club of Portmore at a recent installation ceremony held at the Waterfalls Club in St. Andrew.

He said the Ministry intends to mount a “significant” education campaign on the initiative and assured that security measures are in place that will make stealing the tablets “a waste of time”.

“Don’t steal the computers. They will be of no use to you if you steal them. We are going to be able to track them, disable them and catch those who steal them,” he stated.

Students from 38 schools will have free access to computers, wi-fi and broadband technology during the pilot stage of the programme at the start of the 2014/15 academic year in September.

The Minister also noted that an additional benefit is unrestricted broadband access to the surrounding communities.