KINGSTON, Jamaica — This Christmas, the Universal Service Fund (USF) is giving hope to young learners through its Connect-A-Child initiative, which is designed to equip high-achieving students in need with brand-new tablets.

With an investment of more than $15 million, the USF is distributing 630 devices, 10 in each constituency, throughout December.

The initiative, which targets Primary Exit Profile (PEP) students, was introduced in the 2023/24 academic year as part of initiatives to strengthen digital inclusion and support Jamaica’s knowledge-based development goals.

Chief Executive Officer of the USF, Charlton McFarlane, tells JIS News that the programme has special meaning this Christmas given the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

The distribution comes at a crucial time as schools and communities recover from the storm’s impact on infrastructure, connectivity, and learning.

The USF’s support aims to bridge gaps in access, ensuring that students, especially those who rely heavily on technology for PEP preparation, are not left behind.

“This Christmas, the Universal Service Fund is connecting our children to more … to ensure that students in need receive a brand-new tablet. Our Connect a Child, this Christmas, reflects our commitment because, at the USF, we keep you connected,” he notes.

The first handover ceremony took place on December 5 at Moravia Primary School in May Pen, Clarendon.

For Principal, Beverly Smith Williams, the support could not have come at a better time.

“I am elated. I would like to say thank you to the Universal Service Fund for that,” she says.

Moravia Primary, known for its strong academic performance, has maintained a steady focus on teaching, learning, and technology integration, even during times of disaster.

Smith Williams tells JIS News that in the aftermath of the hurricane, the staff has found creative ways to keep learning alive.

“We didn’t have [running] water or electricity, but we decided we must do something. We had water stored in the tanks, so we brought the students in for half-day classes. The teachers go [the extra mile] to ensure that the students are cared for,” the principal says.

She adds that even without a dedicated computer laboratory, the school has consistently pushed digital readiness, with donations of devices from past students and political representatives. Parents have also been encouraged to invest in tablets as well.

Smith Williams says the new USF devices will go a far way in supporting students who continue to excel despite challenges.

“I hope that we’ll get more because the students are always performing well. We emphasise academics here, and it shows; we are one of the top schools in the cluster,” she boasts.

Distribution will continue in constituencies across Jamaica until December 31.

The USF, which falls under the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, is mandated to expand access to information and communication technologies islandwide.

Its ongoing investments are geared towards building a digitally empowered society where no child is excluded due to financial hardship.

–          JIS