KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to combat educational inequality, Jamaica’s Universal Service Fund (USF) has launched a transformative Christmas initiative delivering brand-new tablets to high-achieving students facing economic challenges. The Connect-A-Child program represents a $15 million investment distributing 630 devices across all constituencies throughout December.
The strategic intervention specifically targets Primary Exit Profile (PEP) students, aligning with Jamaica’s broader digital inclusion objectives and knowledge-based development framework established for the 2023/24 academic year. USF Chief Executive Officer Charlton McFarlane emphasized the program’s heightened significance following Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on educational infrastructure and connectivity.
This technological empowerment initiative arrives at a critical juncture as educational institutions nationwide continue recovery efforts from recent storm damage. The tablet distribution aims to ensure continuity in digital learning, particularly for students relying on technology for PEP examination preparation.
“This Christmas season, the Universal Service Fund is connecting our children to greater opportunities by ensuring disadvantaged students receive these essential learning tools,” McFarlane stated. “Our Connect-A-Child initiative embodies our organizational commitment to keeping Jamaica digitally connected.”
The inaugural distribution ceremony occurred December 5 at Moravia Primary School in Clarendon, where Principal Beverly Smith Williams expressed profound gratitude for the timely support. Despite operating without dedicated computer facilities, Moravia Primary has maintained exceptional academic standards through innovative teaching methodologies and community support.
“We’re absolutely elated by this contribution,” Smith Williams remarked. “Even during the hurricane’s aftermath without electricity or running water, our faculty implemented creative half-day sessions to sustain educational continuity. These tablets will significantly enhance our digital readiness efforts.”
The school has historically leveraged donations from alumni and political representatives to advance technology integration, while actively encouraging parental investment in educational devices. The principal noted the new resources will particularly benefit students demonstrating academic excellence despite socioeconomic challenges.
Device distributions will continue through December 31 across all Jamaican constituencies. Operating under the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, the USF maintains a legislative mandate to expand information and communication technology access nationwide, working toward a digitally inclusive society where financial circumstances never impede educational advancement.