More than 800 primary and secondary institutions across Jamaica are set to benefit from a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Education in Schools Programme over the next three years.
The GB£1.7-million programme is an initiative of the British Council, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, e-Learning Jamaica Limited, National Education Trust (NET) and Micro:bit Educational Foundation.
Portfolio Minister, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, described the programme as a critical cross-agency and bilateral partnership, noting that the Government cannot achieve its goal of becoming a STEAM country by walking the journey alone.
She was delivering the keynote address during the initiative’s launch on Wednesday (March 19) at AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston.
Senator Morris Dixon noted the targeted focus on teachers in the programme, pointing out that in order to transform Jamaica and its education system, the educators’ capacity to deliver high-quality STEAM instruction must be strengthened.
“We expect, through this project, to have over 10,000 teachers trained in STEAM education. Also, 1,350 master STEAM teachers will… be trained, and there will be some courses that will be done online and offline. Over 7,000 primary-school teachers will also be receiving hands-on training,” she outlined.
Dr. Morris Dixon shared that e-Learning Jamaica will continue to outfit schools with laptop, desktop and tablet computers, and interactive panels and projectors to support the programme.
Approximately 32,000 programmable micro:bit devices will be distributed to primary-level students, providing them with valuable opportunities to engage in hands-on coding and digital creation.
For her part, British Council Caribbean Regional Director, Americas, Joanna Burke, said the organisation is committed to bridging divides, promoting understanding and creating opportunities that empower individuals and societies.
“Today’s launch is not just another programme. It’s about deepening our commitment to education, to young people and to the future of Jamaica. STEAM represents the skills and knowledge that will define the future by adapting to the growing need for a world and workforce equipped with 21st century skills, and they empower students to think critically, to solve problems creatively and to innovate boldly,” Mrs. Burke said.
She underscored that in a world where technology is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, all countries must ensure that their young people are not just participants in the global shift but leaders of it.
“Integrating STEAM into the curriculum will not only enhance the quality of education but also prepare students for the careers that will drive Jamaica’s economic growth and global competitiveness,” Mrs. Burke stated.