Camotes gets first computer classroom

CEBU, Philippines - A first computer classroom in Camotes Islands was launched yesterday by the municipal government of Poro through the assistance of a South African volunteer.

Poro Mayor Luciano Rama and the South African benefactor Ronell Jordaan led the launching of the computer classroom at the Mercedes Elementary School.

Also present during the momentous event for the school were the officials of the Department of Education, teachers and the parents.

Rama and Jordaan turned over the computer units to the school officials led by principal Bernard Rey Loon.

Jordaan arrived in Camotes Island in November last year to join a newly-founded volunteer organization based in the island. Rama said the organization cease to operate in December but Jordaan worked for the donation of second hand computers to establish the computer classroom in Mercedes Elementary School and provided training to the teachers.

According to Rama, he and Jordaan agreed to expose the students in the island to the information and communication technologies.

“In order for this learning to take place, it was crucial that the teachers at the school be skilled in basic computer literacy,” Rama said.

“I will work to get donations from other countries for used computers and try to give fifteen computers in every school in Poro’s 17 barangays. This is what India is doing and that’s how they have achieved world prominence in computer and programming,” the mayor added.

Starting in the first week of January, each of the twelve teachers at Mercedes Elementary School dedicated three hours per week of their time and attended Basic Computer Literacy training conducted by Jordaan herself.

Rama said he is now working to get the donations for more computers and distribute these to other elementary schools in Poro town.

“Computer education is not only crucial in the development of youth but also forms part of the national curriculum,” Rama said.

According to Mayor Rama, the municipal government seeks constant support in acquiring computer equipment, maintenance resources and training.

“ It is my greatest wish that these computers will be equipped with the necessary educational software that could greatly enhance the learning experience for the elementary pupils of the Camotes Islands, ” said Jordaan. — (FREEMAN)