CAMPERDOWN High on Friday unveiled a state-of-the-art learning and development facility, touting the initiative as a bold step by the Kingston institution into the future of education.
The launch of the Learning and Development Room at the school, facilitated via a partnership between Camperdown and international education and technology organisation ThinkNChange, coincides with the co-educational institution’s 95th anniversary celebrations.
Feroze Hanif, CEO of ThinkNChange and the visionary behind the initiative, described the space as far more than just a classroom. It is designed to equip students and teachers alike with skills vital to thriving in an increasingly digital world.
“This room is not just any space — it’s a shift in mindset, a portal, a window to the rest of the world,” said Hanif during the launch ceremony. “People will be acquiring skills, not just for today but for tomorrow…quantum physics, quantum computing — those are the skills that we need to start building today so we can leap forward, so that we can get Jamaica on the world stage.”
The Learning and Development Room is equipped with cutting edge multimedia — teleconferencing technology, secure Internet network, wireless interface — and custom-designed seating. The aesthetic and functionality aim to stimulate learning and creativity.
Camperdown Principal Valentine Bailey echoed the sentiment of transformation.
“We want to move away from the traditional approach of relying solely on the whiteboard,” he said. “While the core purpose of the room is for coding, the bigger picture is personalised learning and integrating technology in everyday instruction.”
Bailey emphasised the room’s expected high usage.
“Mr Hanif gave us a mandate to make sure the room is dirty; it must be used every day,” he said.
The principal also revealed plans to replicate the model across other high schools and some primary schools in Jamaica.
“It’s a small room, but we should by now know the power of small things. Small things can have a big impact,” he said.
Education Officer Christine Bartley, who represented the Ministry of Education in the absence of Minister Dana Morris Dixon, reminded attendees of their shared responsibility.
“Even though this centre is for learning, we must also maintain it for generations to come,” she said. “Maintenance is just as important as learning.”
Christopher Benjamin, representing Jamaica’s Consul General to New York Alsion Wilson, labelled the initiative as an example of the Caribbean country’s global partnerships at work.
“This initiative represents a powerful partnership between education and technology, one that recognises that the future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate and lead,” said Benjamin.
He also expressed gratitude to Royal Computers CEO Jack Khemlani, who donated the software and equipment for the project, and Hanif and his team at ThinkNChange.
Meanwhile, the head of Camperdown’s Information Technology Department Arlene Morgan was “ecstatic” and said the room offers far more than just coding opportunities.
“This will improve students’ creative and game-building skills, and even open doors to entrepreneurship. For teachers, it’s also a space for us to improve our own digital literacy and explore innovative teaching methods,” she noted.
While the room will initially operate as part of an after-school programme, Morgan confirmed that plans are in place to integrate it further into the curriculum. Student groups will rotate through an eight-week programme that will culminate in a final project, with successful participants receiving certificates.
Lab technician Dwayne Smalling provided insight into the meticulous work that went into transforming the space.
“You wouldn’t recognise the room if you saw it a few months ago. Everything was redone — from the flooring and paint to the computers and lighting,” said Smalling. “We’ve ensured students have a comfortable space to focus and thrive.”
He also hinted at future integrations with advanced AI tools, including ChatGPT, to help students find information and build their own learning pathways.
“This is still in its infancy but we’re building a platform for students to interact with AI, develop projects, and even welcome other schools to participate,” he said.
For ninth-grader Krishawn Smith the possibilities are thrilling as he is excited to learn how to code games, explore cybersecurity, and get into animation.
“This room was built with you in mind,” expressed Benjamin. “Be curious, be bold, and know that you are supported by a community that believes in your potential.”