On Labour Day, the classrooms of St Martin de Porres Primary and Infant School in Gordon Town, St Andrew, moved a step closer to the future. The school received a donation of 21 tablets and a state-of-the-art interactive smartboard—ushering in a fresh wave of digital learning for both students and teachers.
The contribution came as part of a broader national effort funded by the National Education Trust (NET), the CHASE Fund, and e-Learning Jamaica—who have jointly committed $10 million to improve technological access in 15 schools across 13 parishes.
The initiative is designed to modernize teaching environments by outfitting schools with digital tools such as laptops, smartboards, and upgraded Internet connectivity. Additionally, it provides essential training for educators to effectively integrate these tools into their daily instruction.
Volunteers from all three partner organizations joined in the Labour Day spirit by helping repaint the school’s playground before officially presenting the devices to the school.
Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dana Morris Dixon, was present for the handover and described the moment as a milestone in closing the technology gap for students across the island.
“We’re transforming classrooms one school at a time,” she said. “Every child deserves access to the digital tools that support 21st-century learning, and this is one of the many steps we’re taking to ensure that happens.”
Principal Lorraine Campbell-Hartley, moved by the gesture, shared how impactful the resources will be—especially for children who lack access to technology at home.
“This opens up a new world for our students. Even though space is limited, the benefits are endless. It brings learning to life and empowers both teachers and students,” she said.
Senior teacher Edmond Ferguson called the donation a dream realized. “This is something we’ve long hoped for. Our students will now be better equipped to thrive in an evolving educational landscape,” he said.
As the sun set over Gordon Town, it was clear that Labour Day had brought more than fresh paint—it brought renewed hope and a stronger foundation for the digital classroom of tomorrow.
