WILLEMSTAD - Schools across Curaçao are set to receive laptops in February 2025 as part of an extensive project aimed at digitalizing education. Minister Sithree ‘Cey’ van Heydoorn (MFK) of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports (OWCS) announced the initiative during a presentation in Parliament.
The project also includes significant upgrades to the technical infrastructure of schools, with all educational institutions now connected to a MetroEthernet network. Minister Van Heydoorn highlighted the pressing need to address outdated infrastructure and the lack of modern equipment, which has left many computer labs non-functional.
"Teachers have often been forced to purchase equipment themselves," the minister explained. "This creates financial inequality. A reliable laptop is crucial for developing innovative teaching materials and preparing students for a digital future," he added.
To further enhance connectivity, the government has signed an agreement with Digicel/Tres to install fiber-optic connections to over 100 schools. This network will provide fast, stable, and cost-effective internet access through a centralized data center. Schools have also had access to Microsoft 365 licenses since 2002, supporting digital learning tools.
This initiative is seen as a critical step in bridging the digital divide in education, ensuring teachers and students have access to the resources needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.