The Universal Service Fund (USF) has commenced the distribution of tablets under its Connect a Child programme for the 2024/25 academic year.
Students in Manchester and St. Elizabeth have already received their devices, and presentations will be made to pupils in Westmoreland, Hanover, Trelawny and St. James on Friday (September 20).
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the USF, Andrew McRae, said that 630 tablets will be issued to students in need across the island up to October 2.
“The Connect a Child programme is designed to support students who excel academically but face financial challenges. By providing each Member of Parliament (MP) with 10 tablets, the programme ensures that deserving students have access to the digital tools necessary for their continued academic success,” he said.
Mr. McRae noted that “all recipients have been selected based on their academic performance and family income status, with the added provision of having access to Wi-Fi to maximise the tablets’ effectiveness”.
The Connect a Child Programme targets Primary Exit Profile (PEP) students and was introduced in the 2023/24 academic year in accordance with a Ministerial Order.
It is fully funded by the USF and reflects the Fund’s commitment to enabling a knowledge-based society through universal access to the Internet and digital inclusion.
The USF is an agency under the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, mandated to ensure access to information and communications technology tools to facilitate development.