Education Minister Rodolphe Samuel, GEBE CEO Kenrick Chittick, CFO Iris Arrindell and VROMI Minister Egbert Doran.
PHILIPSBURG--Some pupils, who are still in need of tablets and laptops for their online classes, might receive one, thanks to a donation of 400 laptops and tablets by utilities company GEBE to the government recently.
GEBE made the donation in commemoration of its 60th anniversary on September 16. The intention is for the government to distribute the devices amongst primary schools for pupils who are in need. “As uncertainty continues to hover (Ed. over) the physical reopening of schools due to the COVID 19 (crisis), teachers, parents and students are concerned about the fate of education due to lack of resources to access classes online,” GEBE said in a press statement on Tuesday.
“In helping to relieve some of these fears, NV GEBE has donated 400 tablets/laptops. This will increase NV GEBE’s corporate social responsibility and financial support to the community of St. Maarten to US $350,000 for 2020,” the company said.
GEBE’s Chief Executive Officer Kenrick Chittick said the island has been faced with many challenges over the past few months, and every child should have access to education. “Now 400 students will be able to continue their education even from home. We understand that this is an uncertain time for everyone. We at GEBE are elated to be able to provide this level of support to help ease the burden and make a difference in the lives of the student, parents, and teachers in the community. The Managing Board of NV GEBE (has) been committed towards education and sports over the years.”
GEBE said the Minister with responsibility for the utilities company Egbert Doran was invited to hand over the devices to Education Minister Rodolphe Samuel during the ceremony to celebrate their anniversary.
