Downtown residents get tools for tech learning
This summer, 20 residents of Breezy Castle and neighbouring communities in downtown Kingston are being introduced to online learning and basic computing through participation in LIME Foundation’s Community Computer Summer Camp.
The camp, scheduled to run from July 14 to 25, is located at ‘The Link’ — a purpose-built Internet access facility opened by the foundation in April 2014 and operated by the MultiCare Foundation.
Participants are being instructed in basic computing and document preparation, including how to use and find information on the Internet.
“Online learning is one of the fastest-growing ways people are gaining access to information that can improve the way they live,” LIME Foundation Executive Chairman Errol Miller told guests at the launch of the programme on Monday. “It has the potential to revolutionise basic or higher education and the camp will give participants the basic tools for learning.”
The first batch of 10 participants began their five days of training Monday, ahead of the other 10 participants who will commence their computer-based learning experience next Monday.
One of the welcoming features of the summer camp is that students will be able to learn at their own pace while being guided by certified information technology professionals.
“Motivation is key to a student of basic computing and online learning, and so we have selected persons who are eager to learn and are committed to proper time management,” Miller explained.
Sited at the Breezy Castle Sports Complex along the Kingston waterfront, ‘The Link’ cyber centre is within easy reach of participants. The facility, a retrofitted container, was converted at a cost of nearly $3 million and is a major hub for free Internet access, homework completion and research for residents of communities in downtown Kingston.
Already, 400 primary schools receive free Internet service from LIME, and thousands more are able to access the Internet free of cost through a total of 10 cyber centres like ‘The Link’ established across Jamaica by the Foundation. LIME is one of the three endowing partners of the Multicare Foundation. The others are the ICD Group and Caribbean Cement Company.
