Students and teachers at St Jude’s Primary School in St Andrew are now benefiting from a smart laboratory that leverages technology to enhance teaching and learning.

Donated by the Digicel Foundation, the facility is equipped with 24 computers, an interactive smart board, a printer, a smart door lock for safety and Digicel’s high-speed Internet connectivity.

Speaking at the official handover on Tuesday, March 25, the principal of the school, Susanna Ainsworth, expressed gratitude for the “very valuable gift”. She said the students are “eagerly anticipating the opportunity to explore, learn, and innovate within this cutting-edge lab”.

“This facility is not just a space filled with technology; it is a gateway to endless possibilities where curiosity ignites knowledge and creativity knows no bounds,” she said.

“Let us remember that this is not merely a celebration of infrastructure but a celebration of the future that we are building together”, the Principal added.

Chairman of the Digicel Foundation, Joy Clarke, said the organisation believes that access to technology and digital literacy are “fundamental to the success of our children”. She noted that by the end of March, the Foundation would have established 21 smart labs in primary schools across the island.

“This means there will be 21 spaces where young minds can learn and grow with the help of modern technology.  These tools will not only enhance how students absorb knowledge but will also expose them to 21st-century skills that will be crucial for their future success,” she said.

Clarke lauded the 180 Degree Foundation for partnering with the Digicel Foundation on the smart lab initiative.

For his part, Councillor for the Maxfield Division Dennis Gordon, implored the students to make good use of the facility. Gordon pledged $100,000 to the facility, from his JACDEN Foundation.