Wesley Hall gets 15 iPads from old scholar

Mikhail Smith has not forgotten his alma mater.

The Barbadian-born electrical engineer who is resident in the United States of America, yesterday presented 15 iPads to Wesley Hall Juniors’ principal Herbert Gittens to be distributed to pupils.

Smith told Barbados TODAY that as a youngster there were many things he did not have and he always intended that once he was in a position to help, he would not hesitate in helping others, especially with their education.

He said providing the devices was one way he could do this, particularly in the current COVID-19 environment where schooling would be done on-line.

Smith said that the devices were just the first batch of an expected 100 that he would be presenting to Wesley Hall.

He explained there was a warranty on the devices and Apple had committed to repairs or replacements if there were any malfunctions within a specified time.

In accepting the iPads Gittens thanked Smith for his generosity and his interest in the school and its children.

The principal explained that previously the plan was to have a blended teaching approach to the new term with the Chapman Street Church of God being put into use.

“But the spike in the COVID-19 cases and the restrictions have changed that,” he said. Gittens noted that teachers were already preparing timetables for the new term and that contact had been made with parents about the start of the new term on January 18. He said there were a few challenges but added these would be dealt with.

“I want to implore parents who have children with the necessary devices to ensure that they come online for classes when they are supposed to,” he said.

Gittens noted that those without devices should contact him at the school for specific arrangements to be made.

He stressed that according to the dictates of the Ministry of Education, schools were proceeding with the curriculum and it was imperative that pupils come online so they would not be left behind during the term. (IMC)