Students, teachers embrace digital transformation through EU-USF Video Competition

Jamaican students and teachers are keen to embrace digital transformation, which is actively being promoted through the European Union (EU) and Universal Service Fund (USF)’s Short Video Competition. This initiative, which highlights the role of digital technology in shaping future careers, has generated great enthusiasm from members of ICT clubs islandwide and has already proven to be a transformative experience.

The competition, launched on February 19 at the EU delegation’s office, challenges high school ICT clubs to create three-minute videos exploring the impact of digital technology on future jobs and the skills necessary for success in a rapidly evolving workforce.

Speaking at the recent USF ICT Club Conference 2025, team leads shared how the competition has expanded their understanding of technology, storytelling, and digital careers. Jabari Manning of Old Harbour High School described the experience as “a learning curve” that has pushed him to develop skills outside his comfort zone.

“So far, I have learned how to properly develop a creative video and structure it so that my message is brought across clearly,” he said. His experience was further enriched by interactions with competition technology expert Kadia Francis, who guided students through the intricacies of content creation and digital storytelling.

Karisa Bellanfante from St Elizabeth Technical High School expressed her excitement about the competition, emphasizing how it has exposed her to new opportunities.

“It’s been very exciting getting to learn new things and entering a video competition which I’ve never done before. The competition is helping me develop different skills, especially in film and networking. Initiatives like these really bring out more from students,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Daniel Appleton of William Knibb Memorial High School in Trelawny admitted that before the competition, he had little knowledge of video production.

“My experience has been fun so far. We’re learning how to act in a video, write scripts, and even add small bits of animation. A lot of people know how to use technology, but they don’t know how to use it indepth. Now, I understand more about AI and how to direct a video,” he said.

His enthusiasm was echoed by other students, who found the competition a rare chance to combine creativity with technical skills. The students’ journey also included two online Q&A sessions with Kadia Francis, which provided an opportunity to clarify concepts and strengthen their submissions.

Speaking at the February launch event, Deiandra Underhill, President of the St. Hilda’s Diocesan High School ICT Club, described the competition as an exciting opportunity to explore the role of digital technology in shaping future careers.

“Through this competition, my peers and I will engage deeply with the ways in which technology will transform the job market, from artificial intelligence to cyber security, from digital marketing to software development. We will learn that the future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and harness the power of technology,” she said.

Her words reflect the growing awareness among students of how digital literacy and innovation are key to unlocking future career opportunities.

Teachers have also recognised the competition’s role in developing critical skills among students. As advisers, they are actively working alongside the students, providing guidance and support throughout the competition.

Roshane Walker, an information technology teacher at William Knibb Memorial High School, praised the initiative for encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones.

“It’s exciting, but sometimes stressful trying to get them to think outside the box, meet deadlines, and be as creative as possible. But overall, it’s a fun experience, and I appreciate the opportunity for them to grow. The world is moving towards technology, and competitions like this help students explore new career paths,” he shared.

Terron Strachan, business and information technology teacher at Seaforth High School, shared similar sentiments, emphasising how the competition allows students to execute their ideas while also understanding the importance of technological resources.

“Many of these students have grand ideas. I’m just here to help them bring those ideas to life. The rapid growth of AI and digital emergence means that students must incorporate technology into their lives, not only in school, but in their future careers,” he said.

Similarly, Dainnia Jarrett-Fowler, a teacher at St. Hilda’s Diocesan High School noted that initiatives like this give students a voice in shaping their futures.

“It has been an exciting journey watching them come up with their own ideas and be innovative. Competitions like these allow students to introspect, identify their weaknesses and strengths, and determine what they want for their future,” she shared.

The competition aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, which seeks to foster digital innovation and connectivity. The grand prize, an all-expenses-paid trip to Belgium in the summer of 2025, offers the winning team firsthand exposure to Europe’s digital transformation efforts, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to strengthening educational and professional opportunities for young Jamaicans.

As the competition unfolds, students are not only developing new skills, but also positioning themselves to be key players in Jamaica’s digital future.