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Government Invests $2.5 Million Dollars in Computers for Schools

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is establishing a technology fund of $2.5 million for the school system (K-12) to further enhance the development of technology. This seed funding will enable schools to purchase additional computer hardware and software.

The results of a survey conducted recently through the Canada/Newfoundland Co-operation Agreement on Human Resource Development show that the student-to-computer ratio for the Province is 12:1, with St. John's schools having the highest ratio with one computer for every 19 students. The problem, however, is many of these computers are becoming obsolete and can only play limited roles in the education system, for example, word processing and keyboarding.

Funding provided under this initiative will enable school boards to replace some of the obsolete equipment currently in our schools. The Province and the School Boards Association call upon private sector companies in the Province to partner in this venture by matching these funds to provide an even greater effort in improving technological literacy for our students.

The Minister of Education, Roger Grimes, said this initiative provides an excellent public/private partnership opportunity. �We are giving education a new beginning through the reform process and through strategic investments in personnel, equipment, facilities and learning resources. Any investment in the students of Newfoundland and Labrador is an investment in the future economic well being of this province. Our students must be prepared for careers in the new knowledge-based economy and the technological world of the 21st century,� said Mr. Grimes.

Contact: Carl Cooper, (709) 729-5040