A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with telecommunication providers, LIME and Digicel to provide internet access to all public schools within the Territory.

Minister for Education and Culture, Honourable Myron V. Walwyn signed on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands and said that the evolution of our society has always hinged on improved technology. He said in this modern era, it is the use of computers and the Internet that is allowing ideas and concepts to be developed across borders.

Minister Walwyn said, “The signing of the MOU with both of the Territory’s telecommunication providers is a significant step in upgrading the teaching and learning experience as the providers are expected to provide unfettered and dedicated Internet access to schools at a speed of 100 megabytes.”

The Minister said that the MOU speaks to the dedication of both LIME and Digicel to practice good corporate citizenship in the communities they serve.

He added, “I believe it also demonstrates that both companies understand that they too must be involved in the development of our young people through the advancement of a quality educational experience.”

Newly appointed CEO of LIME BVI, Mr. Tim R. Ringsdore and Head of Business Solutions at Digicel BVI, Mr. Kevin Gordon, thanked the Minister and the Government for the opportunity to be part of this initiative and reaffirmed their continued support to the development of education in the Territory.

The Ministry of Education and Culture introduced a pilot Information and Communication Technology (ICT) programme in Grade 5 of eight primary schools last year, to integrate technology in the everyday learning of students.

The Honourable Minister announced that the programme will be extended this year to all primary schools across the Territory and that the signing of the MOU will help to ensure the success of the programme.

He added, “Part of our responsibility in this modern era is to make sure that we also teach our students how to use the Internet responsibly.  We have to help our young people understand that their digital footprint will follow them throughout their lives.”

Honourable Walywyn commended the dedication and efforts of the technology experts responsible for the integration of the programme. They include Mr. Vincent Jardine at LIME BVI; Mr. Kevin Carragher from Digicel BVI; the Department of Information Technology and Telephone Services Management Unit; Mr. Arthur Selwood from the Ministry of Education and Culture; and Mrs. Monica Cills-Hodge and Ms. Lauren Welch.

The Ministry of Education and Culture continues to create a culture of excellence within the education system and continues to ensure that students are prepared for their places in society.