Scottish Government to Provide Devices and Internet Access to Disadvantaged Families in Perth and Kinross
Work is currently underway to provide digital devices and internet access to the most disadvantaged families in Perth and Kinross, as well as across Scotland. This initiative comes in response to concerns raised about whether local pupils would receive the promised digital devices outlined in the SNP’s 2021 election manifesto. The Scottish Government has confirmed plans to invest £10 million in 2025/26 to ensure devices are delivered to disadvantaged households.
The commitment to provide digital devices was initially announced back in 2021 by the now-First Minister John Swinney, who pledged to equip every school child in Scotland with a laptop, Chromebook, or tablet for use both at school and at home. These devices would come with free internet connection, technical support, regular updates, replacements, and upgrades to keep up with evolving technology as students progress through their school years.
At a recent meeting of Perth and Kinross Council’s Learning and Families Committee, questions were raised about the distribution of laptops to pupils in the region. While other local authorities have already implemented projects to provide devices to thousands of students, Perth and Kinross does not currently have a one-to-one device policy in place. The council’s Education and Learning strategic lead emphasized the importance of not only distributing devices but also building digital skills and knowledge among students and educators.
Furthermore, concerns were raised about the potential impact of excessive screen time on children’s eyesight, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to technology use. The Scottish Government reiterated its commitment to supporting families in getting online by investing in devices, internet access, and necessary digital skills for disadvantaged households. The program, in partnership with Connecting Scotland, is set to be rolled out at the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year.
In conclusion, the provision of digital devices and internet access to disadvantaged families in Perth and Kinross and across Scotland is a crucial step towards addressing the digital divide and ensuring equal access to educational opportunities. By equipping students with the necessary tools and skills, the government aims to empower them to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Insights and Summary:
The initiative by the Scottish Government to provide digital devices and internet access to disadvantaged families in Perth and Kinross is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in education. By investing in these resources and promoting digital literacy, students from all backgrounds can have equal opportunities to thrive in a technology-driven society. It is essential not only to provide devices but also to support users in developing the necessary skills to utilize technology effectively. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable access to education for all children in Scotland.