Kingston, Jamaica – October 23, 2023: Digicel Foundation signed three groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) to transform the educational landscape in Jamaica by supporting three prominent institutions in their quests for excellence and inclusivity.

Renovation of the Hope Valley Experimental Special Education Centre in St. Andrew:

The first MoU heralds a transformative chapter for the Hope Valley Experimental Special Education Centre in St. Andrew. The Digicel Foundation is committed to funding the renovation of the school’s special education unit, ensuring it becomes a beacon of inclusive education for children with special needs.

As part of the scope of works, Digicel Foundation will be renovating the classrooms, bathrooms, the kitchen area, fixing a leaking roof and revamping the outside play area.

Christina Addington, Education Officer in the Ministry of Education and Youth’s (MoEY) Special Education Unit expressed gratitude to the Digicel Foundation for their continued support in education. She said, “We really have to say thank you because the work that is being done is needed. The Ministry does not always have the money to get what is needed to be done so we really are appreciative of what is to come, and we know what has been done in the past. A big thank you to Digicel Foundation.”

Establishment of a Smart Room at the Morant Bay Primary School in St. Thomas:

Digicel Foundation has collaborated with the Morant Bay Primary School in St. Thomas to establish a Smart Room to facilitate digital literacy and technological advancement for the students. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering the future leaders of Jamaica.

Morant Bay Smart Room will be outfitted with 12 laptops, 12 tablets, a smart board, and a printer. A smart lock with also be installed for safety.

Renovation of the Early Childhood Institution at the Bully Bay Infant and Primary School in St. Thomas:

Digicel Foundation will be renovating the Bully Bay Infant and Primary School in St. Thomas. The project is designed to assist the school in meeting the certification standards set by the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), ensuring that young learners receive the best possible start to their educational journey.

Jodi Bernard Kerr, Board Chair at Bull Bay Infant and Primary said, “We are happy to see this investment being made for our children at the early childhood level. It is truly important that we get this certification as the development of the young minds at the school can only get better from here.”

Meanwhile, Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, shared, "We believe in the transformative power of education and are honoured to partner with these institutions. We are excited to contribute to the growth and development of these schools, ensuring that they provide the best educational experience for their students."

The signing ceremonies took place on Friday, October 21, 2023, marking the beginning of a journey towards improved educational facilities and opportunities for students in these communities.