Jenny Gilruth MSP welcomes the news that work has started to provide every school pupil in Scotland with a laptop or tablet
Published date : 18 Aug 2021
The Scottish Government has committed that by the end of this parliamentary session, all 700,000 school-aged pupils in Scotland will have access to an appropriate digital device, and where necessary an internet connection, to support their learning.
Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed discussions with local government are underway to deliver the ambitious commitment, which will benefit 700,000 children.
The Scottish Government is also working to deliver consistent digital infrastructure across Scotland’s 2,500 school buildings. The announcement delivers on another commitment for the first 100 days of this government.
Ms Somerville said:
“Every child has the right to an education, and we believe that means an education supported and enhanced by technology. This as a vital aspect of an education system in the digital age which was clearly demonstrated by the pandemic.
“This is a hugely ambitious programme of work that will build on efforts to tackle digital inclusion during the pandemic. These early talks with Scottish councils are a positive step towards delivering this commitment.”
Welcoming the announcement, Jenny Gilruth MSP said:
“I am pleased to hear that discussions with Local Authorities are already underway to provide every school-aged child in Scotland with a suitable digital device.
“Even before the blended learning brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, digital and online learning have become a core part of our children’s education. By delivering on this manifesto commitment, the Scottish Government will ensure that every child is given the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background.”
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