68 Per Cent of Schools Now Have Broadband Access

Approximately 68 per cent of schools across the island now have broadband access.

This was disclosed by Custos Rotulorm for Kingston, Hon. Steadman Fuller, who also informed that 260 information and communications technology (ICT) labs and 21 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) labs have been established at primary schools.

Additionally, Mr. Fuller said, “One Thousand Five Hundred tablets (computers) [have been] distributed to early-childhood institutions and 144 interactive smart boards provisioned across the system.”

He was delivering the Throne Speech during the 2025/26 Ceremonial Opening of Parliament at Gordon House on Thursday (February 13) under the theme ‘Jamaica’s Next Chapter: Aspiring to Greatness’.

Infrastructure and technology are among the seven transformational pillars outlined in the Jamaica Education Transformation Commission (JETC) Report.

This pillar proposes that the Government provide physical learning spaces that deliver equitable access and international standard resources to all categories of learners, which will set Jamaica on a path to becoming more globally competitive.

Additionally, it targets designing schools with adequate technological capabilities that will equip Jamaica’s learners to optimise natural and artificial intelligence for personal gain as well as national and global growth.

Mr. Fuller, who deputised for Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, indicated that progress in implementing the 365 recommendations in the JETC’s Report is ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Custos advised that phase one of the digital financial management system has been implemented in 50 schools.

This undertaking is intended to improve fiscal management within the institutions.