KINGSTON, Jamaica – In remembrance of the life of seven-year-old Benjamin Bair, who was tragically killed after being crushed by a garbage truck at the Clan Carthy Primary School in 2019, the Dominican Republic Government has donated 14 desktop computers to the institution.

The resources were handed over by the Dominican Republic Ambassador, Angie Shakira Martinez Tejera through the Dominican Republic Adoption Programme.

She added that following Benjamin’s untimely death four years ago, “I knew that we had to do something special for this school.”

“I’m happy as a servant of the Dominican Republic and its government to play our part in supporting the education of your youth… I was further connected to this institution when I learnt of the tragedy that took place here some years ago. With the unfortunate passing of Benjamin Bair, it was overwhelming to learn of the circumstances that led to his death…Today we are at the culmination of this incredible period and we dedicate these [computers] to Benjamin,” expressed Martinez.

In the incident, which rocked the school community at the time, Bair, on Monday, October 28, 2019, was on the compound of the school located in St Andrew waiting to be picked up when the tragedy unfolded.

READ: Death truck was old, not roadworthy, driver tells cops

Against this background, Martinez said that the computers are “a commitment to your [student’s] future and a testament to the enduring friendship between the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.

“As we hand over these computers, we do so with the firm belief that they will not only be used for learning but for creating, for dreaming because we believe in your dreams. Your aspirations and your ability to make a positive impact on the world… The future is in your hands. I, myself can be a testament to the result of education,” Martinez noted.

“Education is the current path to prowess and today’s interconnected work and access to technology is a vital component on that journey. In response to the needs expressed by the authorities of this institution, we are here to deliver a resource that will be used by every one of these students in a fully equipped computer room. This donation will include a room with 14 desktop computers as well as very colourful and comfortable chairs and air conditioning…,” she said while encouraging the students to believe in their dreams, work hard, stay curious and let the flame of ambition light the path to their success.

She added that computers will also be provided to the staff room and library, courtesy of IQTech.

Martinez was accompanied by Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams, who is also Member of Parliament (MP) of St Andrew Eastern; Juliet Holness, Member of Parliament for St Andrew East Rural and MP for St Andrew South Eastern, Julian Robinson for the handing over ceremony.