KINGSTON, Jamaica – One hundred-and-forty-seven wards within juvenile remand and correctional centres are to benefit from technological devices that have been donated from e-Learning Jamaica Company (eLJam) to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).

The devices, which were handed over during a ceremony at the South Camp Juvenile Correctional Centre on Tuesday, include 63 laptops/desktops and 120 tablets.

The computers are expected to assist with the teaching and mentorship programmes in juvenile institutions.

Meanwhile, the Statistical Institute of Jamaica will donate four projectors, at a later date.

Minister of state in the Ministry of National Security, Zavia Mayne, highlighted that participation in the educational programmes in the juvenile correctional institutions is not optional and the programmes offered to wards will assist with their upward mobility.

“We endeavour to provide the same standard of education within the correctional centres that is offered to students in Jamaica’s educational system. The children participate in remedial programmes,” Mayne said.

“Education is one of the best forms of rehabilitation for youths, and it certainly sets the platform for reintegration into society once they are released from these institutions,” he added.

Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Fayval Williams, encouraged the wards in attendance to embrace education.

“You are here because you made a mistake, but take the time to think, learn and be educated,” she said.

“Achieve your CSEC and CAPE subjects so that when you exit, you will become the person you want to be,” she added.

Williams also expressed gratitude to (eLJam) for their contribution that will assist the wards in their educational pursuits.

In addition, Principal Director of Information Communications Technology at the Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology, Kaydian Smith-Nelson, delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister of Science, Energy and Technology, Daryl Vaz.

“We know that these devices from the ministry will assist the DCS in its learning and mentorship programmes at juvenile facilities and we commend e-Learning for collaborating with the Ministry of National Security to identify the areas of need and to provide the ICT solutions,” she said.

“Today, all ministries represented here are declaring that a bright future for our wards exists and we are committed to making this a reality with these devices,” Smith-Nelson added.

Chief Executive Officer at e-LJam, Andrew Lee, emphasised the importance of access to technology and devices within institutions.

“Children who are interested and engaged in what they are studying are expected to have better knowledge retention,” he said.

“Teachers can use apps or trusted online resources to enhance the traditional ways of teaching and keep students more engaged. With countless online resources, technology can help to improve teaching,” he added.