The Tribune

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has presented 2,500 tablets to the Ministry of Education to support its smart schools' initiative.

BTC's chief executive, Garry Sinclair, told the public schools administrators conclave on Monday that the company is also delivering on its commitment to provide broadband connectivity to 127 schools across the country.

"We believe that education is perhaps the single most important investment for a successful future. BTC is injecting almost $3m in capital expenditure to improve internet access and to provide 2,500 tablets," Mr Sinclair said.

"This is indeed an indelible moment in our history, as we extend the same promise of connectivity to every child in these 13 islands. Access to best-in-class broadband for all students is not just a needle mover, but a fundamental right to empower every student to succeed in a global economy."

All public school administrators will also receive a tablet. BTC has partnered with Samsung to provide training and learning resources for the administrators on how to maximise use of tablets and smart technology in the classroom.

"We are confident that the inclusion of smart technology will definitely enrich the learning experience for students and teachers", Mr Sinclair said. BTC is providing broadband connectivity to schools in Abaco, San Salvador, Mayaguana, Rum Cay, Exuma, Long Island, Inagua, Berry Islands, Bimini, Crooked Island, Cat Island, Andros and New Providence.

The connectivity project is the foundation for the government's smart schools' initiative, aimed at building a connected and smart nation. BTC and the Ministry of Education signed the agreement in September 2018.