Nassau, Bahamas – September 4th, 2024 – In partnership with the Government of The Bahamas and C&W Communications, BTC has today launched JUMP, a private-public partnership aimed at fostering digital inclusion and bridging the digital divide by providing connectivity, access, and digital literacy skills to 5,000 families in need.
Qualifying households will receive subsidized internet connectivity, with BTC and The Government paying a portion of the monthly subscription fee, and the customer paying a nominal monthly fee. Households will also receive a free laptop through BTC’s partnership with DELL, along with a comprehensive digital skills training program. The training program will cover the Microsoft Office suite, and practical instruction on how to access and utilize online services, including the ability to monitor their child’s progress with the Ministry of Education.
BTC’s CEO, Sameer Bhatti, was on hand for the press conference, touting the significance of the program to national development.
“There are still many children and families that do not have the tools to thrive in this digital world. I am proud that we have officially launched JUMP, to provide access to what we believe are fundamental rights which will bode well for the country’s success. This is a major way that we are demonstrating our commitment to caring for our communities. JUMP gives not just students, but families that extra boost to succeed. We’re providing the laptops and internet connectivity, and we are also investing in digital literacy. There are many persons that still have apprehensions about using a computer and completing digital forms for employment, utilizing online portals for bill payment and the list goes on. Through the digital skills training, we are ensuring that no one in the family is left behind,” Bhatti said.
The press conference also saw the graduation of 12 families that have completed the first tranche of training, in its pilot program.
Minister of Education, The Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin welcomed the JUMP initiative in The Bahamas and looks forward to the continued partnership with BTC.
In her remarks, she said, “Equitable access to digital literacy was an urgent mandate in light of the emerging global digital reality. It is necessary to take all steps to assure our children and young people are in front of these changes. This programme gives access when there might otherwise have been done. It is a window to this new reality.”
Here are the requirements to apply for the program:
Parents should complete the application form which can be found on BTC’s website: http://www.btcbahamas.com/jump
Households should be in an area where BTC’s fiber services are available
Families must register for and complete the eight-week training program
The JUMP program, which has already connected over 3,000 families across several Caribbean countries including Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, and St. Lucia. The program is executed through the Cable & Wireless Charitable Foundation (CWCF).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Indira Collie
Senior Manager, Communications
M: 424-2406
E: indira.collie@btcbahamas.com
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