Mormon church blesses Jonathan Grant High with $3.7 million upgrade

Twenty-three computers and three projectors valued at JMD$3.7 million were handed over to the school to replace what principal, Dr. Oneil Ankle, describes as "malfunctioning and slow computers".

He said, this is one way of equipping students for technological advancements while expressing gratitude for the donation and hope that this is the start of something great.

According to the National Communication Director for the Latter-Day Saints Jamaica, Raia Richards-Peart, "it is a significant initiative as it demonstrates God`s love for his children”.

She states that Jonathan Grant High School was chosen because the “Lord knows where to go when he wants to bless”.

Richards-Peart, who is an information technology teacher at the institution, added she saw the need to give students the opportunity to use technology in an efficient and effective way, while noting that the upgrade will not only benefit IT students, but all students, particularly those who are sitting external exams.

Nadine Ferguson, head of the business and technology department at the institution based in Spanish Town emphasized the importance of the donation within the context of the covid-19 pandemic and its impact where students are looking to more technological integration.

Ferguson says "the computers and projectors will make classes more efficient and students more engaged".

Moments after the installation of the computers, Grade10 student, Elonesis Carter, mentioned that she is already seeing improvements. She added: "This will motivate me to strive for excellence, especially in IT.

On behalf of the entire student populace, Carter expresses sincere gratitude for the devices from the Christian denomination also known as the Mormons.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is known for its continuous contribution to education and even other programmes to include; counseling, financial literacy, personal and professional development.

Leroy Blake, welfare and self-reliance manager, says the church is more than a Sunday worship body, as it is also their belief that they have a role to play in nation building and the overall advancement of human welfare.