WESTERN BUREAU – Ian Hayles, the Jamaica Labour Party caretaker for North Trelawny, has launched a $2-million computer project for basic schools in the constituency.

The 43 basic schools are to be equipped with computers over the next 18 months, under the programme. In addition, specialist trainers are to be assigned to these schools to teach teachers how to use the equipment.

In presenting the first computer to the Samuel Prospect Basic School on Wednesday, Hayles – a vice-chairman of G2K – said the decision to launch the programme was based on the need for students to access information technology at an early age.

“We believe that… the most important period for a young individual is between the ages of three and seven years, and we want to start at that most important period in helping these individuals craft a future on a solid foundation,” he said.

School principal, Mitzie Small-Pryce, later expressed gratitude for the donation, adding that it would help the students in their quest for knowledge. She also pledged to teach the students how to care for the equipment as they develop their computer skills.

Meanwhile Horace Chang, the JLP deputy-leader for Area Council Four who was present at the function, commended Hayles for implementing the project.

“It is a very commendable project by the co-ordinator, Mr Ian Hayles, to bring computer technology to the basic schools and we will give it all the support we can,” Chang told the Observer after the handover of the machine.

Funding for the programme is being provided by JLP Senator and businessman, Norman Horne, as well as a number of local and overseas businessmen.