The EU, earlier this week, launched the Digital Transition Programme for Jamaica at a function in Kingston.

Under Global Gateway, this is an innovative programme to increase inclusive access to and use of ICT across the country, in support of the country’s transition towards a digital economy and society.

European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen said: “I am proud to launch the Digital Jamaica programme. In order to thrive in tomorrow’s working world, young people need strong digital skills and access to high-quality Internet. With this programme, we are connecting Jamaica’s youth to broadband and providing them with the skills and education they need to succeed in the future. This is what our Global Gateway investment strategy is all about: delivering sustainable hard infrastructure and providing through soft infrastructure citizens with the skills and tools they need to benefit from it.”

The Digital Jamaica programme objectives are two-fold: to connect Jamaicans with improved broadband access while providing those working and learning in the education section with training in digital skills.

The Digital Jamaica programme contributes to Jamaica’s national digital plan, which includes addressing the digital divide with rural areas, facilitating access to education and also technological innovation for the private sector.

Under Global Gateway, the EU’s positive offer to deliver trusted and sustainable connections for our partner countries, the Digital Jamaica programme will “connect” the island through €9.5 million in direct budget support to the Jamaican Government.

This will support the installation of Wi-Fi networks in schools and the training of teachers on digital skills. It is expected that national training programme will inspire a strong trickle-down effect with students who will and a greater use of digital tools. In order to further bridge the digital divide, EU will facilitate and support private investments in the Jamaican digital sector, particularly in areas so far underserved or unconnected across the country.

The launch took place at an event in the presence of a number of ministerial Jamaican colleagues to include Minister for Skills and Digital Transformation Dana Morris Dixon; Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Aubyn Hill; and Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams.

The EU was represented by the deputy secretary general of the European External Action Service (EEAS), Helena Konig and Team Europe Ambassadors.