29 December, 2009 - Minister O'Keeffe announces €22m for laptops in primary schools

Over 3,000 primary schools are receiving €22 million in grants to buy laptops and digital projectors as part of the Government's plan for smart classrooms, according to the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD.

In total, 3,213 primary schools are getting grants ranging from €1,769 to €33,000.

Each school gets a basic grant of €1,700 plus €34.59 per pupil.

The funding is the first step in the roll-out of the 'smart schools' plan which will invest €150 million over the next three years equipping every classroom with a teaching laptop and digital projector.

The action plan was produced by a joint advisory group established by Minister O’Keeffe and it builds on the earlier strategy group report, 'Investing Effectively in ICT in Schools'.

The advisory group was chaired by Paul Rellis, Managing Director of Microsoft Ireland.

Schools can begin the equipment procurement process by getting competitive quotes  under the National Procurement Frameworks.

Minister O'Keeffe said: 'The €22 million I am providing to primary schools will allow them to buy laptops and digital projectors which can be linked to improve the teaching and learning experience.

'As Minister, I attach particular significance to progressing the integration of information communications technology (ICT) in the classroom.

'The better use of technology in schools is vital to ensuring that students leave with the skills required for the new economy as we seek to regain our competitiveness.' 

The advisory group that worked on the 'Smart Schools = Smart Economy' report comprised members of ICT Ireland, the Telecommunications and Internet Federation, the Irish Software Association, the Department of Education and Science, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, and the National Centre for Technology in Education.

Minister O'Keeffe will announce funding for technology in post-primary schools in the New Year.

ENDS