Press Release

Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation
Topics: 
Education
Release Date:
Thursday, 27 June 2024 - 2:47pm

Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, presented fifteen laptop computers to the principal, Ms. Akima Powell of Robinson O'Neal Memorial Primary School (ROMPS) for their graduating class of 2024.

These laptops, generously donated by David and Pamela Johnson of Oil Nut Bay (ONB) through the North Sound Foundation (NSF), symbolize a significant contribution to the educational journey of these students.

Oil Nut Bay (ONB) has maintained a steadfast commitment to Robinson O'Neal Memorial Primary School (ROMPS) for over a decade, starting with the rebuilding efforts led by the North Sound Foundation (NSF) after the school suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017. The ongoing support from NSF continues to enhance the school's resources and facilities, ensuring a conducive learning environment for the students.

The laptops provided will play a crucial role in the students' educational development as they prepare to transition to high school. These devices will empower them with enhanced capabilities for studying and conducting research, thereby enriching their academic experiences and preparing them for future challenges.

Ms. Powell, graciously accepted the laptops on behalf of the school community and assured Deputy Premier Honourable Lorna Smith, that the laptops will be presented to the graduating students at their upcoming Exit Dinner on July 4th, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.

Honourable Lorna Smith, known for her passionate advocacy for children and youth, particularly emphasised the importance of digital access in today's educational landscape. As the Minister responsible for digital transformation, she highlighted the necessity for every household and child in the Virgin Islands to have access to computers and internet connection.

She stated that such access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for effective learning and participation in a digitally connected world.

 Deputy Premier Honourable Lorna Smith extended heartfelt congratulations to the Robinson O'Neal Memorial Primary School Class of 2024. She expressed her best wishes for their continued success as they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey, confident that these laptops will serve as invaluable tools in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth."

Author

Sonjé Greenidge

Information Officer II
Department of Information and Public Relations (GIS)
Telephone: 468-2742
Email: SGreenidge@gov.vg