When children in developing countries get their hands on computers it can open up their worlds.

It’s exactly what Kevin Shier, president of Bird’s Eye Technologies in Cochrane, hopes to do when he takes 16 computers, one server and network supplies down to Jamaica in January.

Twelve of the computers were donated by the Town of Cochrane, and they will be brought down by Shier to the NewStead School in St Ann’s Parish, Jamaica.

He will also be spending a few days to install the network.

“I saw a need,” said Shier. “We have the technical ability and equipment that was suitable to fill that need. We’re thrilled that the Town is able to participate with us.”

Jamaican principal Alrika Hinds and Cochrane’s Kevin Shier stand outside the school where the donated computers will be used. Photo submitted

The school has 130 kids from Grades 1-6, all of whom ride a bus or walk up to 10 kilometres to get there.

Alrika Hinds, the principal and former teacher, has been at the school for 35 years.

She said her greatest wish is to “get kids interested in learning to read and staying in school beyond Grade 6.”

The school will soon have high-speed cable internet access, and thanks to the donation a fully stocked computer lab.

Both the Town and Bird’s Eye Technologies plan to keep bringing technology to the school in the future as the Town replaces computers too old for “Canadian standards.”

“With the help of the Town, we’ll be able to keep a cycle of computers moving through the school and provide support that is otherwise inaccessible to them,” said Shier.

“We’ll make at least one visit per year to refresh equipment and do normal network maintenance.”

The Town is excited about the donation that provides much needed technology, and keeps computers out of the recycling depot for an additional two to three years.

“We’re always looking for ways to reuse or recycle equipment,” says Maureen Noble, Information Technology manager for the Town. “We’re proud to support Bird’s Eye Technologies, and this great project.”

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