POWERING UP THE PANYARD

New Tech Centres Bring Digital Access to Steelpan Communities

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New Tech Centres Bring Digital Access to Steelpan Communities 〰️

PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, 10 APRIL 2025 — In a major milestone for the intersection of culture, technology, and education, the Digicel Foundation has launched 10 new Technology in Education (TIE) Centres at panyards across Trinidad and Tobago. These TIE Centres are designed to promote lifelong learning, digital literacy, and skills development – not only for steelband members, but for the wider community in underserved areas.

Youth members of RBC Redemption Sun Setters in Tobago celebrate the launch of the Panyard's new Technology in Education (TIE) Centre, 27 March. 

This marks the third year of the Digicel Foundation’s TIE programme, and the second year focused on outfitting panyards in partnership with PanTrinbago and local steelbands. The new centres are located at Highlanders, Royal Stars, Tokyo, Sangre Grande Cordettes, Skiffle Bunch, Diatonics, Nuttin Big, West Stars, and Desperadoes Steel Orchestras in Trinidad, and at RBC Redemption Sound Setters in Tobago.  Each panyard has been equipped with 5 desktop computers, ergonomic desks and chairs, a multi-media projector, Nintendo switch and TV, printer, and 1-year free internet access courtesy Digicel Plus.

Speaking at the Desperadoes TIE Centre launch on March 25, Digicel Foundation CEO Penny Gomez highlighted the inspiration behind the panyard initiative: “A pivotal moment in our journey came when the Tobago PAN-thers applied for a grant to establish a computer lab in their panyard. This partnership underscored the importance of non-profit organisations identifying the genuine needs of their communities. It also illuminated the exciting possibilities that arise when we connect culture and technology.”

The TIE Centre programme has received widespread support and praise, with Minister of Sport and Community Development, the Honourable Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis, describing the initiative as “a meaningful investment in our people – transforming traditional community spaces into modern hubs for empowerment.”

Digicel Foundation Director LaToya Gopaul assists a young band member using the new computers at Desperadoes Panyard on 25 March. 

PanTrinbago President Beverly Ramsey-Moore added, “We are honoured to be part of this national initiative that brings technology and education directly into our panyard…we believe in the power of pan, and now, with the power of technology, we’re building a stronger future together.”

The programme has been particularly significant for Tobago, which now has three centres with cutting-edge digital tools and training opportunities available to the island’s pan community. The TIE Centre at RBC Redemption is expected to host after-school programmes, community workshops, and skills training focused on youth and at-risk populations.

“As a Tobagonian and a Director of the Digicel Foundation, I’m especially proud to see this initiative come to life here at RBC Redemption,” shared Georgina Peterkin. “The TIE Centre is not just about technology, it’s about creating access, bridging gaps, and empowering our communities through education. This is a space where culture meets opportunity, and where the next generation can dream, learn, and thrive right here in Tobago.”

The Digicel Foundation has, thus far, invested TT$733,000 in 19 TIE Centres at panyards nationwide. Steelbands are encouraged to apply during the next Call for Applications to help expand the reach and impact of this transformative initiative.

Digicel Foundation Director LaToya Gopaul assists a young band member using the new computers at Desperadoes Panyard on 25 March. 

ENDS

About Digicel

As a Digital Operator, Digicel is in the business of delivering powerful digital experiences 1440 minutes of each day to customers – that’s every minute, all day, every day.

Through its world-class LTE and fibre networks, together with its suite of eight apps spanning sports (SportsMax), music (D’Music), news (Loop), local radio and podcasts (GoLoud), TV streaming, (PlayGo) enhanced messaging and marketplaces (BiP), cloud storage (Billo) and self-care (MyDigicel app), Digicel is the only operator in its markets that can deliver the complete digital experience.

Serving consumer and business customers in 32 markets in the Caribbean, Central America, and Pacific with investments of over US$7 billion and a commitment to communities in Haiti, Jamaica, Papua New Guinea, and Trinidad & Tobago, the Digicel Foundation has contributed to positive outcomes for over three million people to date.

With its Better Together brand, Digicel is promising “simply more” to its customers and communities as the company’s 7,000 employees worldwide work together to make this pledge a powerful reality day in, day out.

For more, visit www.digicelgroup.com