Flow Foundation has deepened its commitment to national development with a $5-million annual investment to bring free high-speed Internet connectivity to 100 early childhood institutions across Jamaica.

The initiative, in partnership with the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), was formalised through the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the two organisations. This represents the latest expansion of the foundation’s Internet in Schools Programme — a flagship initiative that has, since its launch in 2012, grown from a modest intervention in primary schools to one of the most far-reaching private investments in Jamaican education, now serving more than 200 institutions nationwide.

The decision to extend the programme to the early childhood level is one that both parties say has been long overdue.

Dr Karlene Degrasse-Deslandes, executive director of the ECC, welcomed the partnership as she noted that the early introduction of digital technology will set the students up for long-term success.

“Ensuring digital literacy from a young age is critical. Access to reliable high-speed Internet will enhance teaching, enrich learning, and better prepare our children for success in an increasingly technology-driven world,” said Degrasse-Deslandes

For Flow Foundation Executive Director Rhys Campbell, the expansion is consistent with its philosophy of advancement through digital access and education.

Speaking at the signing ceremony Campbell said the investment reflects the organisation’s recognition that the skills children will need to navigate tomorrow’s economy must begin to take root today.

“The landscape for career development has evolved significantly, driven by rapid technological advancement across every aspect of life,” Campbell said.

“Through our partnership with the Early Childhood Commission we are expanding the Internet in Schools Programme to reach our youngest learners. We are proud to build Jamaica’s future by ensuring our children have the tools to succeed in a connected world,” added Campbell.

Since its inception, the Internet in Schools Programme has evolved into a sustained, annually funded commitment to ensuring that Jamaican students — regardless of the level at which they are learning — are not left behind as the world grows increasingly dependent on digital access.

With this latest agreement, that commitment now extends to the island’s youngest students.

Flow Foundation Executive Director Rhys Campbell enjoys some play time with students at Galilee Basic School in Kingston following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the foundation and the Early Childhood Commission to provide free Wi-Fi access to 100 early childhood institutions across the island.