Today, the Ministry of Education moved one step closer to realising one of its key objectives, to connect schools and classrooms in real-time across Guyana through the use of innovative technology.
The first ‘Smart Classroom’ was launched today at the National Centre for Education and Resource Development (NCERD). The 21st Century technology connects classrooms in any region of Guyana. This will serve to bridge the gap between coastal schools and those in the hinterland and rural communities.
Delivering remarks at the launch exercise was Chief Education Officer, Mr. Marcel Hutson who commented that the launch of the initiative marks a significant day in the history of education delivery in Guyana.
He said that it is symbolic of the education sector embracing the use of technology to deliver education; something the Ministry has been clamouring to do for the longest while.
He said that the occasion is just the beginning and efforts will be made to establish similar rooms across Guyana. According to the CEO, the benefits are tremendous as children and teachers can benefit from interactive learning “shifting away from the chalk and talk”.
“It is the beginning of a new season in our country and will only get better as we press on.”
Minister of Education, Hon. Nicolette Henry MP said that the launch of the Smart Classroom represents a high moment of the Ministry of Education as it is embracing a 21st Century Teaching Tool.
She said that the use of the Smart Classroom epitomises the Ministry’s efforts at providing quality education to all and reducing disparities between the hinterland, rural and coastal areas; an issue that will be a primary focus for the Ministry as it moves into the new year.
Meanwhile, ICT Coordinator within the Ministry of Education, Ms. Marcia Thomas said that the idea to connect classrooms around Guyana has been around for some time. However, it was after a meeting with the Minister of Education that discussed bridging the gap between the hinterland, coastal and rural areas, that ideas emerged to achieve the goal.
She said that the equipment that has been set up in a special room at NCERD were bought at a cost of US$30,000. The room features a touch screen Promethean Board, 30 Charging stations for Tablets, Smart Phones and Computers and Ergonomic Furniture for the pupils to use.