Rural Jamaica Losing the Battle with Online Schooling

The reopening of schools online has unearthed several socio-economic issues in households across the island. For those in rural Jamaica, they argue that they’re fighting an uphill battle…From poor cell service coupled with spotty and sometimes no internet connection to now migrating 100% of student learning to the very platforms that were already unreliable. 

As schools reopen, there are fears that the online classes will further widen the digital divide. For those who live in rural Jamaica, access to an electronic device is just one issue that many families face, but reliable internet is another. Member of Parliament for St Ann Northwest, Krystal Lee says parents are worried, while over in Southwest St. Ann, Zavia Mayne says there is a sense of hopelessness.

Several parents and guardians whose children are on the PATH programme received tablets on Sunday, October 4 on the eve of the reopening of schools. 

At the Alva Primary School in St, Ann, Principal, Claudine Brown Bartley says the internet connection is poor in the area. Of the thirty-six students who are on the PATH programme at the institution, only 18 received tablets, students in grades four to six.  Does she worry about what will happen to the other 18 students in grades one to three?

The Ministry of Education has announced a 20-thousand dollar tablet voucher for students who are not on path to assist with the purchasing of a smart device at select stores. But that registration process has not started and what are students expected to do until then? Georgia Scarlett said she received a tablet for her child from the ministry, now she worries about finding someone to stay with her child while she works. 

And for others, they are distressed about other socio-economic issues such as nutrition for their children which would normally be provided by the school.