Government seeks to improve broadband access in schools in order to encourage the use of Information and Communications Technology.

An impact study on the laptop program revealed that 98 percent of parents and teachers support the initiative.

Minister for Education, Human Resource Development and Labour, Hon. Dr. Robert Lewis applauded the outcome, but said that while the laptop program received positive reviews from parents, teachers and students, there are issues which need to be addressed.

"We need increased broadband and Wi-Fi access at our schools with so many students having laptops," he said. "We also need more teachers to be trained in the new technology."

Dr. Lewis said government is exploring options in order to improve broadband access in schools.

"There is a proposal by the Ministry of the Public Service, to the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) to make some of the monies under the USF available to provide broadband in schools. The proposal is for approximately $3 million over a period of five years. This is how we expect to get more children using their computers in our schools."

Over $130,000 is allocated in this year’s budget for teacher training in Information and Communications Technology.