KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a groundbreaking move to modernize early-childhood education, 1,500 specialized learning tablets have been distributed to schools across Jamaica. The devices, provided through a joint effort by PACE Canada and local collaborators, were presented at a ceremony held at Jamaica China Goodwill Infant School I in Kingston on Tuesday.
This initiative marks a major stride in addressing educational challenges faced by early-childhood institutions, many of which operate in remote areas with limited resources. Unlike traditional tablets, these OneTab devices are designed exclusively for educational use, ensuring children engage only with preloaded, curriculum-aligned content. The tablets require no internet connection and can be powered by both electricity and solar energy, making them ideal for rural settings.
Partnering for Progress
During the event, Senator Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, praised the initiative as a model of effective collaboration. “Education is the cornerstone of national development, and partnerships like this one are vital for reaching our youngest learners. PACE Canada’s contribution extends beyond technology; it’s an investment in Jamaica’s future,” she said.
Morris Dixon also highlighted the importance of play in early education, noting that the devices support interactive learning methods that stimulate creativity and critical thinking. “These tablets will empower children to learn while they play, creating a dynamic and engaging classroom environment,” she added.
A Longstanding Commitment
Founded in 1987, PACE Canada has a storied history of supporting young learners in Jamaica, focusing on the critical developmental years between ages three and six. Diana Burke, President of PACE Canada, expressed pride in the organization’s ongoing efforts. “We believe every child deserves access to quality education. These tablets are a tool to unlock potential and ensure no child is left behind,” she said.
This donation builds on the organization’s previous contributions during the pandemic, when over 900 devices were distributed under the Government’s One Laptop per Child Initiative.
Safe, Accessible, and Impactful
Tanketa Chance-Wilson, Executive Director of Barita Foundation, one of the project’s key partners, emphasized the safety and accessibility of the OneTab devices. “In a world where children are often exposed to inappropriate content, these tablets provide a secure and controlled environment for learning. Additionally, their ability to function without internet access ensures no community is excluded,” she explained.
The initiative has received support from notable organizations, including the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, VM Foundation, and JPS Foundation, alongside individuals like author Marjorie Straw. Together, these contributors are helping to bridge the technological gap in education.
Building the Future, One Tablet at a Time
The handover ceremony also served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure equitable access to education. Morris Dixon encouraged continued collaboration, saying, “This is just the beginning. Together, we can transform Jamaica’s education system, one step at a time.”
This donation of tablets is more than just a technological upgrade; it represents a commitment to nurturing Jamaica’s youngest minds, equipping them with the tools to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
