Jamaica Cabinet approves US$30m two contracts for tablets in schools project

Two contracts totalling US$30 million to continue activities under the Tablets in Schools project gets the approval of Jamaican Cabinet.

While disclosing details minister of education, youth and information Ruel Reid during a post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica house said that of the sum, US$16 million was awarded to GeoTech Vision Limited, while US$14 million was awarded to Innovative Corporate Solutions Limited for the supply and delivery of tablet carts and services..

Among the objectives of the Tablets in Schools project are to provide children in educational institutions with appropriate devices based on agreed guidelines for e-learning; provide all educational institutions with appropriate technology, e-content and training of teachers in technology integration; and build competence in the use of technology.

Reid said it is paramount that students be technologically adept, noting that very soon, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) will be administering aspects of their tests online.

“Tablets, laptops, all of this is part of the menu. Our information technology policy will give guidance to our stakeholders on how to manage the (technology) resources in our schools, so that is something we have to embrace,” he said.

Reid, in the meantime, pointed to the need to ensure that children remain physically active even while they keep up with the latest technological advancements.

“We like our children to embrace technology but also find time for leisure, find time to do physical activities, so that they maintain good health,” he said.