Pan Rising with Digicel Foundation

Technology

pannist playing pan

THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2024, PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – The Digicel Foundation is once again partnering with the Pan fraternity to install technology labs at panyards throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Ten panyards will soon benefit from tech upgrades as part of the Digicel Foundation’s Technology in Education (TIE) Programme, joining the eight launched last year.

Through an investment of TT$675,000, the Digicel Foundation will equip the panyards with computers, desks, chairs, and essential electrical and infrastructural upgrades. As part of this year's efforts to create vibrant, youth-friendly spaces, new tech gadgets such as Nintendo Switch consoles and Smart TVs will also be installed at some of the panyards, providing new tools for learning and creativity.

Band leaders are eagerly awaiting the upgrades as they plan to use technology to increase and enhance music literacy amongst youth. The Digicel Foundation’s Project Officer Diana Mathura-Hobson emphasised the broader impact of the initiative, sharing, "The TIE Centres are more than just computer labs. These spaces are meant to create new opportunities and bolster innovation within these communities. It’s about connecting culture and communities through technology in a responsible way."

The upgrades are well underway, with the following panyards set to be completed by the end of November 2024:

  • Highlanders Steel Orchestra – Morvant Port of Spain

  • Royal Stars Steel Orchestra – Lady Young Morvant

  • Tokyo Steel Orchestra – John John East Port of Spain

  • Sangre Grande Cordettes – Sangre Grande

  • Skiffle Bunch Steel Orchestra – San Fernando

  • Diatonics Steel Orchestra – Siparia

  • Nuttin Big Steel Orchestra – Petite Valley

  • West Stars Steel Orchestra – Diego Martin

  • Desperadoes Steel Orchestra – Port of Spain

  • RBC Redemtion Steel Orchestra – Tobago

The partnership between Digicel Foundation and these Steelbands highlights a shared vision for blending tradition with technology, ensuring that culture remains dynamic and accessible to the next generation.