Bridging the Digital Divide: Fairfield Primary School

Overview:

"Bridging the Digital Divide" is the brainchild of Nicolas Samuel and Sandra Clarke. This particular initiative is dedicated to providing free technology and essential computer education to underprivileged rural communities in Jamaica. Our mission is to equip students with the necessary tools and skills for academic and professional success, directly addressing the digital divide. First stop Jamaica, then the rest of the world!

Our Story:

During a 2023 summer fundraiser in Jamaica, we were inspired to act after witnessing the technological shortfalls at Fairfield Primary School. The outdated equipment highlighted the urgent need for hardware and software education, sparking the idea for this project.

Goals:

Our immediate objective is to secure funding for:

- 16 laptops: $4,400

- 1 desktop computer: $500

- Shipping and customs duty: $500

- Accessories (printer and portable charging cart): $1,000

Total Required: $6,400

This equipment will support a pilot program for a high-performing class at Fairfield Primary School, with future plans to expand and establish a computer lab.

Phased Roll-out:

1. Provide laptops to the pilot program class.

2. Offer basic coding classes taught by US high school students, both remotely and in person.

3. Extend the laptop program and coding instruction to more students.

Socio-Demographics:

Fairfield Primary is in Manchester, a largely rural Jamaican parish with significant economic challenges that were exacerbated by the pandemic. Approximately 34% of students lack access to technology and reliable internet.

Call to Action (CTA):

We are looking for partners and sponsors to help us achieve our goal. Your support can transform lives by providing vital technology access and education to students who are eager to learn but constrained by resources. Here’s how you can help:

- Donate: (No Overhead) So every contribution, big or small, brings us one step closer to our goal of $6400. Your donation will go directly toward purchasing computers, accessories, and educational materials for the students.

- Volunteer: Share your time and skills by volunteering to teach basic computer education or coding workshops. Whether remotely or in person, your expertise can make a significant difference.

- Spread the Word: Help us amplify our mission by sharing our campaign with your friends, family, and network. The more people know about our cause, the faster we can close the digital divide.

Current Partners:

-Port Washington School District: Paul D. Schreiber High School Key Club - Partner with the school’s volunteer club by raising funds together in their local communities and growing more awareness. Students can help by volunteering their time and helping with the fundraising process in exchange for volunteer hours.

-Port Washington School district: Paul D. Schreiber High School Coding club - Get high school students in coding clubs to volunteer their time to teach basic coding skills to the Fairfield students online. Explore the potential for onsite instruction during the summers.

-UNITAS:Great news!!! Sandra & I are excited to announce that we have partnered with UNITAS of Jamaica (UNITAS) in furtherance of this incredible project. UNITAS is a non-profit service agency associated with the Moravian Church of Jamaica & the Cayman Islands. The organization is dedicated to improving primary schools and providing support in areas such as computer technology and modern sanitation facilities. https://unitasofjamaica.org

Partner Opportunities:

-Partner with us through your high school clubs or any other recreational groups that are interested in helping.

-Collaborate on fundraising and community awareness initiatives

-Teach coding

-Corporate Programs and other non profit organizations are welcome to reach out

Long Term Benefits:

By establishing a computer lab and promoting digital literacy, we aim to create lasting opportunities for community growth and economic development, helping to break the cycle of poverty through education.

Contact: To learn more or to get involved with the Fairfield Primary Technology Project, please reach out via our Instagram handle at @Bridging_the_digital_divide_.