The Vaz Preparatory Past Students' Association (VPSPSA), in partnership with Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and the Kiwanis Club of Division 23 East, recently donated 30 all-in-one Dell computers to Denham Town High School and facilitated the refurbishment of the Lloyd Carney Computer Lab at Vaz Preparatory School.
This initiative highlights the power of strategic partnerships in advancing education and fostering 21st-century digital skills in Jamaica.
This effort was spearheaded by Logan Hall and Alanna Richardson (Teen Ambassadors), Vaz Alumni, FAU, and Kiwanis leaders, including Glen Campbell (Associate Director of IT, FAU) and Stephan Rampair (Lieutenant Governor, Kiwanis Division 23 East). The initiative included critical network infrastructure upgrades at Denham Town High School and Vaz Preparatory, ensuring students can access computers, connectivity, and cutting-edge educational software.
Peter Richardson, President of the VPSPSA, delivered an inspiring message titled "A Vision for Digital Empowerment." He said: "This moment stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit of our alumni network, our partners, and everyone who believes in the transformative power of education."
From left: Bisnott-Hemmings, Principal of Vaz Prep; Ms Holman, DLG, Kiwanis Club of New Kingston and Ms Fairman, President, Kiwanis Club of New Kingston.
Highlighting the initiative's impact, Richardson thanked Kiwanis for their support with shipment and assisting with the schools’ technological upgrades
"This effort underscores our commitment to bridging the digital divide by equipping students for the digital age through early computer access and meaningful partnerships”
He recognised the collaboration with alumna Simone Sobers of Winsome Wishes for KIDS (WWKIDS) and also singled out resources like the UNESCO Award-Winning GraphoGame App, which strengthens literacy and numeracy skills, combined with coding, AI, and robotics programmes, which he said “empower students to excel in today’s digital landscape.”
“We are proud to have extended support to John Austin Primary in Clarendon, which received 10 computers as part of this initiative. The unwavering support of our alumni, strategic partners, and community has been instrumental in turning this vision into a reality."
To date, the Alumni have donated over 200 computers and while we could have ensured every student at Vaz would have access to a computer, we were raised to think of others and that’s why we have donated over 150+ of the computers to 12 schools across Jamaica.
Stephan Rampair, Lieutenant Governor of Kiwanis New Kingston, encouraged the youth to empower themselves by gaining a solid understanding of how AI works, emphasising that this transformative technology is readily accessible at their fingertips.
Christine Bartley, education officer with responsibilities for schools in East Kingston and Port Royal, noted: "Digital empowerment is a journey, not a destination. It demands commitment, collaboration, and creativity. I am confident that together, we can achieve greatness and overcome any challenges. Let us join forces to turn our vision for digital empowerment into reality."
These efforts form part of a larger campaign leading up to the Vaz Preparatory School’s 75th Anniversary Gala, to be celebrated on September 12, 2026.
