Bridging the digital divide

WESTERN BUREAU:

IT WAS all warm smiles and curious eyes at the Beaufort Primary School in Westmoreland, last Thursday as the Jamaica Awareness Association of California (JAAC), which is marking its 25th anniversary, showered them with much-needed gifts.

The gifts donated to the school included tablet computers, laptops, projectors, printers, sporting gear and other vital educational resources. The students were also offered paediatric dental services.

“We are proud to officially welcome Beaufort Primary School as our newest adopted school as we celebrate our 25th education and health mission to Jamaica,” said Patrick Williams, president of JAAC, while he participated in the school’s devotional exercise.

“This means Beaufort Primary School has now joined Buff Bay Primary School, in Portland; and Mount Salem Primary and Infant School, in St James, as our adopted schools, and we are proud that we can do this on our 25th mission to our beloved country,” added Williams.

According to Williams, his team has visited a total of 14 primary schools across the island and has been sending educational supplies to another two educational institutions.

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the digital divide in Jamaica has widened dramatically, with thousands of children struggling to keep pace due to a lack of access to devices or reliable Internet. Beaufort Primary, like many rural schools, has felt the brunt of this reality.

However, as the tablets were being distributed to selected students at Beaufort Primary, it was a case of hope replacing hardship. For many of the pupils, some of whom had never owned a digital device, the donation represented more than technology; it was a lifeline to the future, especially to the grade six students who will be embarking on their high school journey in September.

“We know what it’s like to grow up without, and we never forget where we are from,” said Williams.

The JAAC, founded in 1987 and based in Los Angeles, is a non-profit dedicated to uplifting underserved communities in Jamaica and California. Its mission combines promoting Jamaican culture with providing essential support in health, education, and outreach.

The association conducts annual medical missions across several Jamaican parishes, offering free healthcare services and surgical training. Its educational efforts include donating supplies, setting up computer labs, teacher training, workshops, and scholarship programmes.

“I had always wanted a tablet computer, but my mummy couldn’t afford it,” one of the female students said, her eyes lit up with gratitude. “Now I can do my schoolwork faster, and my teacher says I can use it to read more books.”

Heather Spence, the school’s principal, extended warm gratitude and appreciation for the gifts, saying “It is more than just a hand-over ceremony, it is a celebration of kindness, community, and care for our children.”

“A special thank you goes out to those who have made today possible by donating school supplies and providing dental care for our students,” Spence said. “Your generosity will go a long way in supporting the educational and personal development of our children.”

Highlighting the impact of the donations, Spence noted that the resources would “ease financial burdens on families but also help build confidence and create better learning experiences for our students.”

She emphasised the link between oral health and academic success, stating, “Oral health is a critical part of overall health, and ensuring our students receive proper care is an investment in their long-term well-being.” Thank you for helping to promote not just education, but also health and dignity.”

“To our students, this is a reminder that you are valued, you are supported, and you are the reason we all come together. Make the most of what is given to you, and always strive to be your best,” said Spence.

Like the school, the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information has also responded with heartfelt gratitude to the generous donation made to Beaufort Primary by JAAC.

Education Officer Dr Susan Simms hailed the gesture while acknowledging that this support will advance and enhance the school’s educational pursuits for academic excellence.

“Your commitment to our mission not only enriches our students’ educational journey but also inspires a culture of giving and community involvement,” said Simms.